Delayed Menstruation and Pregnancy Concerns

Delayed menstruation and contraception?

Hello, Doctor.
I went to see a doctor this afternoon and had an ultrasound, which showed no signs of an embryo.
When the doctor explained about the right ovary, I noticed a dark area that reminded me of what a doctor in Taiwan mentioned about the formation of menstrual blood (though I'm not sure).
My last menstrual period was from August 11 to 15, and the most recent one was from September 5 to 8.
I had intercourse twice: once on September 10 (two days after my period ended, with no condom and ejaculation) and once on October 6 (with a condom and ejaculation outside).
I took pregnancy tests on October 7 and October 18, both showing a single clear line.

1.
I would like to ask if the ultrasound showed nothing, does that mean the chances of pregnancy are low?
2.
If I want to regulate my menstrual cycle, besides taking pre-menstrual medication, are there any better methods?
3.
I received an injection to induce menstruation today; how long does it usually take for menstruation to occur?
4.
If I don't get my period within a week after the injection, is there a possibility of pregnancy?
I came here to consult because the examination methods of doctors here are quite different from those in Taiwan.
Thank you for your hard work.

Han, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2017/10/25

Dr. Huang Jianzhong reply Obstetrics and Gynecology

1.
I would like to ask, if the ultrasound shows nothing, is the chance of pregnancy low? Answer: The chance of pregnancy is low.

2.
If I want to regulate my menstrual cycle, besides taking premenstrual medication, are there any better methods? Answer: Taking premenstrual medication is a good method for regulating the menstrual cycle.

3.
I received an injection to induce menstruation today; how long does it usually take for menstruation to occur? Answer: It usually takes 3 to 7 days.

4.
If I received the injection to induce menstruation and I haven't had my period after a week, is there a possibility of pregnancy? Answer: Yes, there is a possibility of pregnancy.

Reply Date: 2017/10/25

More Info

Hello! Thank you for reaching out with your concerns regarding delayed menstruation and potential pregnancy. I understand that this can be a stressful time, especially with the uncertainty surrounding your menstrual cycle and the results of your ultrasound. Let’s address your questions one by one.

1. Ultrasound Results and Pregnancy Probability: If the ultrasound did not show any signs of an embryo, it is indeed a strong indication that you are not currently pregnant. Typically, if a pregnancy is established, an ultrasound can detect a gestational sac or embryo around 5-6 weeks after the last menstrual period. Given that your last menstrual period was in early September and you had unprotected intercourse shortly after, it is possible that you could have conceived. However, the absence of any visible pregnancy on the ultrasound suggests a lower likelihood of pregnancy at this time.
2. Methods to Regulate Menstrual Cycle: If you are looking to regulate your menstrual cycle, there are several options beyond taking hormonal medications. Lifestyle changes such as maintaining a healthy diet, regular exercise, and managing stress can be beneficial. Additionally, herbal remedies like ginger or cinnamon may help some women, but it's essential to consult with your healthcare provider before trying any alternative treatments. If hormonal medications are necessary, your doctor can prescribe birth control pills or other hormonal therapies to help regulate your cycle.

3. Timing of Menstruation After Hormonal Injection: After receiving a hormonal injection to induce menstruation, it typically takes about 1 to 2 weeks for your period to start. However, this can vary based on individual hormonal responses and the specific medication used. It’s important to follow up with your healthcare provider if your period does not arrive within this timeframe.

4. Possibility of Pregnancy After Injection: If you received a hormonal injection and do not get your period within a week, there is still a possibility of pregnancy, albeit it may be low given the ultrasound findings. If you have concerns about potential pregnancy, it would be wise to take a home pregnancy test about a week after the missed period or consult your healthcare provider for further testing.

In summary, while the ultrasound results suggest a low likelihood of pregnancy, it is still important to monitor your body and any symptoms you may experience. If you have further concerns about your menstrual cycle or potential pregnancy, I encourage you to maintain open communication with your healthcare provider. They can provide personalized advice and support based on your specific situation.

Lastly, remember that stress and anxiety can also affect your menstrual cycle, so finding ways to relax and take care of your mental health during this time is equally important. I wish you the best of luck, and please feel free to reach out if you have more questions or need further clarification!

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