When to Take a Blood Test for Pregnancy After a Missed Period?

If your menstrual period is delayed by a few days, you can visit a clinic to have a blood test for pregnancy?

How many days of delayed menstruation should I wait before going to the clinic for a blood test to check for pregnancy? My husband and I previously went for preconception check-ups, and his results were normal.
The doctor mentioned that my blood test showed polycystic ovary syndrome, and I have been taking ovulation medication to regulate my cycle.
In the last few months, my menstrual cycle started on 8/20, 9/23, 10/24, 11/8, 11/9, 11/11, and 11/12.
We had intercourse during this time, and since my period hasn't arrived yet, I took a home pregnancy test on 11/28, which showed two lines, although the test line was very faint.
Recently, I've been experiencing some mild cramping in my abdomen, similar to light menstrual cramps, and occasionally feel nauseous.
Could this be an early sign of pregnancy? Should I go to a general obstetrics and gynecology clinic for a blood test right away, or should I wait a few more days? When would be the best time to visit a larger hospital for obstetrics and gynecology? Thank you.

Mi Lan, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2017/11/28

Dr. Cao Guotao reply Obstetrics and Gynecology

Hello, you may be pregnant.
It is recommended to see an obstetrician-gynecologist.
Wishing you good health.

Reply Date: 2017/11/28

More Info

When it comes to taking a blood test for pregnancy after a missed period, the general recommendation is to wait at least one week after your missed period to ensure the most accurate results. This is because, during early pregnancy, the hormone human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) is produced by the placenta shortly after a fertilized egg attaches to the uterine lining. Blood tests can detect hCG levels earlier than urine tests, but waiting a week allows for a more reliable reading, as hCG levels will have had time to rise significantly.

In your case, since your menstrual cycle is irregular and you have a history of polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), it can be a bit more complicated. With PCOS, ovulation may not occur regularly, which can lead to missed periods and make it difficult to determine the right time to test for pregnancy. However, if you have missed your period and have had a positive home pregnancy test, it is advisable to follow up with a blood test.

Given that you experienced a faint positive line on your home pregnancy test on November 28, it would be prudent to schedule a blood test as soon as possible. The faint line indicates that there is some level of hCG in your system, which suggests that you may be pregnant. The symptoms you describe, such as mild abdominal discomfort and occasional nausea, can indeed be early signs of pregnancy. These symptoms are common in the first trimester as your body begins to adjust to the hormonal changes associated with pregnancy.

For the best course of action, I recommend visiting a healthcare provider for a blood test. If you are experiencing any concerning symptoms, such as severe pain, heavy bleeding, or any other unusual symptoms, you should seek medical attention immediately. Otherwise, a visit to a general obstetrics and gynecology clinic for a blood test can be done soon after your positive home test.

As for when to see a specialist or a larger hospital, it is typically recommended to schedule an appointment with an obstetrician once you have confirmed your pregnancy through a blood test. This is usually around 6-8 weeks into the pregnancy, when an ultrasound can be performed to confirm the viability of the pregnancy and check for a heartbeat. However, if you have any concerns or complications, such as those related to your PCOS or any other health issues, you should not hesitate to seek care sooner.

In summary, you can go for a blood test as soon as you suspect you are pregnant, especially after a positive home test. If the test confirms pregnancy, follow up with your healthcare provider to discuss your symptoms and plan for prenatal care. Regular monitoring and early intervention can help manage any potential complications, especially given your history of irregular cycles and PCOS.

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