Abdominal Discomfort: Signs of Pregnancy or Other Issues?

Intermittent dull pain in the abdomen?

Hello doctor, I had a medical abortion on February 5th, and my menstrual periods have been regular for the past three months, aligning perfectly with the predictions from my app.
My last menstrual period was from May 12 to May 18, and the app predicted that my next period would start on June 13.
However, I am now five days late.
I usually experience menstrual cramps, especially in the three months following the abortion, and I always need to take painkillers.
On the first day of my period, the flow is usually very light.
After my May period, I had intercourse on May 18 (withdrawal), May 21 (withdrawal), May 27 (with condom), June 4 (withdrawal), June 11 (with condom), and June 17 (with condom).
On June 17 in the afternoon, I took a pregnancy test which showed one line.
Since June 13, I have noticed breast tenderness and some cramping in my abdomen that feels similar to pre-menstrual discomfort, occurring intermittently.
Doctor, could this be a sign of pregnancy, or could there be other possibilities?

N, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2018/06/18

Dr. Cao Guotao reply Obstetrics and Gynecology

Hello, the chances of pregnancy are low, but it is always best to take preventive measures beforehand.
Do not rely on the safe period, as it could be discomfort before menstruation.
If your period is more than a week late, it is advisable to see a gynecologist.
Wishing you good health.

Reply Date: 2018/06/18

More Info

It sounds like you are experiencing a range of symptoms that could be related to pregnancy or other underlying issues. Given your recent history of a medical abortion on February 5th and the subsequent regular menstrual cycles, it is understandable that you are concerned about the possibility of being pregnant again, especially with the missed period and the symptoms you are experiencing.

Firstly, the fact that your menstrual cycle has been regular for the past three months after the abortion is a positive sign that your body is returning to its normal rhythm. However, a delay in your period can be indicative of several factors, including pregnancy, hormonal imbalances, stress, or changes in your lifestyle or health.

The symptoms you describe, such as breast tenderness (indicated by the "涨奶" or milk production) and abdominal discomfort similar to menstrual cramps, can indeed be early signs of pregnancy. Breast tenderness is a common symptom due to hormonal changes that occur in early pregnancy. The abdominal discomfort you are experiencing could also be related to the changes in your body as it adjusts to potential pregnancy or could be a sign of premenstrual syndrome (PMS) if your period is about to start.

Given the dates you provided for sexual intercourse, it is important to consider the timing of ovulation. If you had unprotected intercourse around your ovulation period, there is a possibility of conception. The fact that you took a pregnancy test on June 17th and received a negative result could suggest that you are not pregnant, especially if it was taken too early. Pregnancy tests are most accurate when taken after a missed period, so if your period does not start soon, it may be worth retesting.

Additionally, the abdominal discomfort you are feeling could also be attributed to other factors unrelated to pregnancy, such as gastrointestinal issues, stress, or even ovulation pain. It is not uncommon for women to experience various symptoms during their menstrual cycle, and these can sometimes mimic early pregnancy signs.

In light of your situation, here are some recommendations:
1. Retest for Pregnancy: If your period does not arrive soon, consider taking another pregnancy test a few days after your missed period for more accurate results.

2. Monitor Symptoms: Keep track of your symptoms, including any changes in abdominal pain, breast tenderness, or any other unusual signs. This information can be helpful for your healthcare provider.

3. Consult a Healthcare Provider: If your symptoms persist or worsen, or if you have concerns about your menstrual cycle or potential pregnancy, it is advisable to consult a healthcare provider. They can perform a more thorough evaluation, including blood tests or ultrasounds if necessary.

4. Consider Stress and Lifestyle Factors: Sometimes, stress or changes in lifestyle can affect your menstrual cycle. Reflect on any recent changes that may have contributed to your symptoms.

In summary, while your symptoms could indicate pregnancy, they could also be related to other factors. Monitoring your cycle and symptoms, along with consulting a healthcare provider, will provide you with the best course of action to understand what is happening with your body.

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