Can You Still Get Pregnant with Two Negative Pregnancy Tests?

If both pregnancy test strips show only one line, is there still a chance of being pregnant?

Hello doctor, I stopped taking the oral contraceptive pill on April 20 to take a break.
On May 6, I had genital contact with my boyfriend, but there was no penetration.
On May 8, I took the emergency contraceptive pill.
Starting May 14, I experienced light bleeding for a few days.
On May 30, I used a pregnancy test and it showed one line.
From June 18, I had bleeding for a few days, but I'm not sure if it counts as a period.
On June 30, I used a pregnancy test again, and it also showed one line.
I would like to know if there is still a chance of pregnancy because my abdomen feels a bit bloated and does not flatten after using the restroom, which used to happen before.
I'm a bit worried.
Thank you!

Win, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2017/07/14

Dr. Huang Jianzhong reply Obstetrics and Gynecology

Starting from April 20, I stopped taking the birth control pill to take a break.
On May 6, I had genital contact with my boyfriend, but there was no penetration.
On May 8, I took the emergency contraceptive pill.
From May 14, I experienced light bleeding for a few days.
On May 30, I used a pregnancy test and it showed one line.
Starting June 18, I had bleeding for a few days, but I'm not sure if it counts as a period.
On June 30, I used a pregnancy test again and it also showed one line.
I would like to know if there is still a chance of pregnancy.

Answer: There is no chance of pregnancy.

P.S.
I feel like my belly has become more protruded, and it doesn't flatten after using the restroom like it used to, which makes me a bit worried.

Reply Date: 2017/07/14

More Info

It sounds like you're experiencing a complex situation regarding your reproductive health, and I understand how concerning it can be, especially when dealing with conflicting pregnancy test results and unusual bleeding patterns. Let's break down your situation and address your concerns about the possibility of pregnancy despite having two negative tests.

First, it's important to clarify how pregnancy tests work. Home pregnancy tests (HPTs) detect the hormone human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG), which is produced shortly after a fertilized egg attaches to the uterine lining. Typically, hCG levels can be detected in urine about 14 days after conception, but this can vary based on individual factors such as the timing of ovulation and implantation.

In your case, you mentioned that you had two negative tests on 5/30 and 6/30, which suggests that, based on those tests, you were not pregnant at those times. However, there are several factors that could lead to a false negative result:
1. Timing of the Test: If you took the test too early, hCG levels might not have been high enough to be detected. If you suspect you might be pregnant, consider waiting a few days and testing again, preferably with the first morning urine, which is more concentrated.

2. Dilution of Urine: If you drank a lot of fluids before taking the test, it could dilute the hCG levels in your urine, leading to a negative result.

3. Quality of the Test: Not all pregnancy tests are created equal. Some may be more sensitive than others. Ensure you are using a reliable brand and check the expiration date.

4. Chemical Pregnancy: This occurs when a fertilized egg implants but does not develop properly, leading to a very early miscarriage. This could explain the positive test followed by bleeding.

Regarding your symptoms of a "puffy" abdomen, this could be due to various reasons unrelated to pregnancy, such as bloating, hormonal changes, or gastrointestinal issues. If your abdomen feels consistently distended, it may be worth discussing with a healthcare provider to rule out any underlying conditions.

Given your history of taking emergency contraception and the subsequent bleeding, it’s also possible that your menstrual cycle has been disrupted. Emergency contraceptive pills can cause changes in your cycle, including irregular bleeding or spotting.

In summary, while it is technically possible to still be pregnant despite negative tests, the likelihood decreases with each negative result, especially if they are taken at appropriate times. If you continue to have concerns about your symptoms or if your menstrual cycle remains irregular, I recommend consulting with a healthcare provider. They can perform a blood test for hCG, which is more sensitive than urine tests, and conduct a physical examination to provide you with a clearer understanding of your situation.

In conclusion, while your negative tests suggest that pregnancy is unlikely, your symptoms warrant further investigation. It’s always best to consult with a healthcare professional who can provide personalized advice based on a thorough assessment of your health.

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