Uncertainty About Pregnancy: Navigating Early Symptoms and Doctor Visits

Unsure if pregnant?

Last month, on July 6th, I suddenly experienced vaginal bleeding (brown in color).
I didn't think much of it, assuming it was my period, but it continued for a week with the same amount (not much) and the color remained brown.
Therefore, I visited a doctor on July 12th, but the pregnancy test came back negative.
Since my mother-in-law mentioned that taking medication was not good, I did not take the prescribed medication for luteal support.
The next day, on July 13th, the bleeding increased and turned bright red, but I still didn't think much of it.

Then, on August 16th, I experienced vaginal bleeding again, which was brown and very minimal—almost only visible when wiping with a small piece of tissue.
Finding it strange, I went to the obstetrics and gynecology department again on August 18th, where a urine test indicated that I was pregnant, which surprised me.
The doctor noted that there were traces of blood in the urine and, considering my irregular menstrual cycle, prescribed seven days of progesterone and 21 days of medications to support the pregnancy.
An ultrasound was performed, but nothing was visible since the embryo had not yet formed.
The doctor advised me to be cautious and to seek immediate medical attention if the bleeding increased.
However, after taking the medications, the bleeding did not stop, and this morning the blood changed from brown to bright red.

Worried about a possible miscarriage, I scheduled another appointment.
This time, the ultrasound still did not show anything, and another urine test was conducted, which indicated that I was no longer pregnant.
When I asked the doctor, he mentioned that I might have had a miscarriage, but the bleeding had not increased.
He advised me to return next week to check if everything had cleared out.
Currently, my bleeding has stopped, and it is again just a little bit of brown discharge.
Should I stop taking the medication? Am I still pregnant? I visited the same hospital but saw a different doctor because the one who confirmed my pregnancy is unavailable this week.
However, this doctor did not find anything.
Should I still go for a follow-up next week, or should I wait until the other doctor returns on September 6th for a follow-up?

Manier, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2017/08/21

Dr. Lin Wenbin reply Obstetrics and Gynecology

Only the original physician can assess the condition.

Reply Date: 2017/08/21

More Info

Navigating early pregnancy can be a confusing and emotionally charged experience, especially when faced with symptoms like vaginal bleeding, uncertainty about the pregnancy status, and the need for medical consultations. Based on your description, it seems you have experienced a series of events that have understandably raised concerns about your pregnancy.

Firstly, it's important to understand that early pregnancy can often come with a variety of symptoms, including spotting or bleeding. Brownish discharge, especially in early pregnancy, can sometimes be normal and is often referred to as "implantation bleeding," which occurs when the fertilized egg attaches to the uterine lining. However, any bleeding during pregnancy should be taken seriously, particularly if it changes in color or volume, as you have experienced.

Given that you have had multiple instances of bleeding, it is crucial to maintain open communication with your healthcare provider. You mentioned that you saw different doctors at the same hospital, which can sometimes lead to discrepancies in information. It is advisable to follow up with the same healthcare provider who initially diagnosed your pregnancy, as they will have a better understanding of your medical history and the specifics of your case.

Regarding the medications prescribed, such as luteal support and anti-miscarriage medications, it is essential to follow your doctor's instructions. If you are experiencing bleeding, you should not stop any prescribed medications without consulting your healthcare provider first. They may want to monitor your situation closely, especially since you mentioned that the bleeding has changed from brown to red. This could indicate a potential issue that needs to be addressed.

As for the question of whether you are still pregnant, the fluctuation in your urine pregnancy test results can be concerning. Sometimes, early pregnancy tests can yield false negatives, especially if the hormone levels (hCG) are not yet high enough to be detected. If you have had a positive urine test followed by a negative one, it is essential to have a follow-up blood test to measure your hCG levels. This can provide a clearer picture of your pregnancy status.

In terms of your next steps, it is advisable to keep your scheduled appointment for follow-up, as your doctor may want to conduct further tests, such as a blood test or an ultrasound, to assess the situation. If you experience any significant changes, such as increased bleeding, severe pain, or other concerning symptoms, do not hesitate to seek immediate medical attention.

In summary, early pregnancy can be fraught with uncertainty, especially when symptoms like bleeding occur. It is vital to stay in close contact with your healthcare provider, adhere to prescribed medications, and seek clarification on any concerns you may have. Regular follow-ups and open communication will help ensure that you receive the appropriate care and support during this critical time. Remember, you are not alone in this journey, and there are resources available to help you navigate the complexities of early pregnancy.

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