Am I Pregnant? Symptoms and Testing After Contraceptive Failure

Are you pregnant?

On August 28, after having sexual contact with my boyfriend, I discovered that the condom had broken.
I immediately went to buy emergency contraception and took it.
On September 7, I started to experience light bleeding for 2-4 days, which I assumed was a side effect of the emergency contraception.
However, starting September 26, I began to feel very unwell, experiencing dizziness, nausea, and weakness in my limbs, along with symptoms similar to menstrual cramps in my lower abdomen.
On September 30, feeling uneasy, I purchased a pregnancy test, which showed one line.
I decided to wait a few days, and if my period did not arrive, I would take another pregnancy test.
However, over the past few days, the lower abdominal pain has intensified, my appetite seems to be increasing, and I am also experiencing lower back pain.
Additionally, my vaginal discharge has been watery.
I would like to know if I might be pregnant.

T, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2017/10/05

Dr. Huang Jianzhong reply Obstetrics and Gynecology

On August 28, after having sexual contact with my boyfriend, I discovered that the condom had broken.
I immediately went to buy emergency contraception and took it.
On September 7, I started experiencing light bleeding that lasted for 2-4 days.
I thought it was a side effect of the emergency contraception.

Starting September 26, I began to feel very unwell, experiencing dizziness, nausea, and weakness in my limbs, along with symptoms similar to premenstrual cramps in my lower abdomen.
On September 30, feeling uneasy, I bought a pregnancy test, which showed one line.
I decided to wait a few days to see if my period would arrive.
However, over the past few days, the lower abdominal pain has intensified, my appetite seems to be increasing, and I have been experiencing lower back pain as well.
Additionally, my vaginal discharge has been more watery.

I would like to ask if I might be pregnant.
Answer: I will buy another pregnancy test on October 7.

Reply Date: 2017/10/05

More Info

Based on the symptoms and timeline you've provided, it seems you are experiencing a complex situation that may involve several factors related to your menstrual cycle, potential pregnancy, and the effects of emergency contraception. Let's break down your situation step by step.

1. Emergency Contraception: You mentioned that you took emergency contraception shortly after discovering that the condom broke. Emergency contraceptive pills (ECPs) are designed to prevent pregnancy after unprotected intercourse. They are most effective when taken as soon as possible after the incident, ideally within 72 hours. However, they can still be effective up to five days after unprotected sex. The side effects of ECPs can include changes in your menstrual cycle, such as irregular bleeding or spotting, which you experienced shortly after taking the pill.

2. Bleeding After Taking ECP: The light bleeding you experienced starting on September 7 could indeed be a side effect of the emergency contraceptive. This is often referred to as "withdrawal bleeding" and can occur as your body reacts to the hormones in the ECP. It is not uncommon for this bleeding to be lighter than a typical menstrual period.

3. Symptoms of Pregnancy: The symptoms you described, such as dizziness, nausea, fatigue, and abdominal pain, can be associated with early pregnancy. However, they can also be side effects of hormonal changes due to the emergency contraception. It is important to note that these symptoms are not definitive indicators of pregnancy.

4. Pregnancy Testing: You mentioned that you took a pregnancy test on September 30, which showed a negative result. Home pregnancy tests are generally reliable, especially when taken after a missed period. However, if you took the test too early, it may not have detected the pregnancy hormone (hCG) if conception occurred. Since you had bleeding after taking the ECP, it is also possible that you are not pregnant, as the ECP is designed to prevent ovulation.

5. Next Steps: Given that you are experiencing ongoing symptoms and abdominal pain, it would be wise to consult with a healthcare provider. They can perform a blood test to measure hCG levels, which is more sensitive than a urine test and can provide a clearer picture of whether you are pregnant. Additionally, they can evaluate your symptoms to rule out any other potential issues, such as an ectopic pregnancy or other gynecological concerns.

6. Monitoring Your Cycle: If your period does not arrive within a week or two after your expected date, it would be advisable to take another pregnancy test or consult a healthcare provider. Keep track of any additional symptoms you experience, as this information can help your doctor make a more accurate assessment.

In conclusion, while your symptoms may suggest a possibility of pregnancy, they could also be attributed to the effects of the emergency contraceptive. The negative pregnancy test is a strong indicator that you may not be pregnant, but given your ongoing symptoms, seeking medical advice is the best course of action. Your healthcare provider can offer personalized guidance and support based on your specific situation.

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