Uncertainty About Pregnancy: When to Test and Consult a Doctor

Unsure if pregnant?

My girlfriend has been taking the contraceptive pill "Yueji" for almost a year.
In June, she did not miss any doses.
She experienced bleeding from June 16 to June 20.
In July, there were a few instances of unprotected intercourse, but there was no ejaculation inside.
On July 9, there was one sexual encounter where the condom slipped off into the vagina, and she did not take emergency contraception.
As of now, her period has not arrived.
On July 16, she took a home pregnancy test, which showed only one line.
However, before July 14, she experienced breast tenderness and increased vaginal discharge without any color change.
Her appetite and sleep are normal.
On July 13, she had lower abdominal pain that lasted about half a day.
I would like to ask the doctor if she should take another pregnancy test.
If it shows one line, can she continue taking the contraceptive pill, or does she need to see a doctor?

A-Kai, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2018/07/19

Dr. Liao Yaopan reply Family Medicine

Hello, it appears that there is a delay in your menstrual cycle.
It is still recommended to visit a gynecologist for an evaluation to confirm the possibility of pregnancy or to identify any other issues.
We would like to remind you of the importance of safe sexual practices! Please note: online consultations do not equate to in-person medical visits and cannot provide accurate diagnoses or treatment recommendations.
Changhua Hospital cares about you.

Reply Date: 2018/07/19

More Info

When it comes to uncertainties surrounding pregnancy, especially after a history of contraceptive use, it's crucial to approach the situation with caution and informed decision-making. Based on your description, it seems you and your girlfriend are navigating a complex situation involving missed periods, potential pregnancy, and the use of contraceptive methods.

Firstly, it's important to understand that while contraceptive pills, like the one your girlfriend has been taking, are highly effective when used correctly, no method is 100% foolproof. The fact that she has been consistent with her pill regimen is a positive factor, but the incident on July 9, where the condom slipped, introduces a variable that could lead to pregnancy.
Given that she has not had her period since the incident and has experienced symptoms such as breast tenderness and increased vaginal discharge, it is advisable to conduct another pregnancy test. Home pregnancy tests are generally reliable, especially when taken after a missed period. However, if the test shows a single line (negative), it could be due to testing too early, especially if her cycle is irregular or if she has recently stopped taking the pill.
In terms of whether she should continue taking the contraceptive pill, it is generally recommended to continue taking the pill as prescribed unless a pregnancy is confirmed. If the pregnancy test is negative and she feels comfortable, she can continue her regimen. However, if she has any doubts or if her symptoms persist, consulting a healthcare provider is essential. A doctor can provide a more definitive assessment through blood tests or ultrasounds, which can detect pregnancy earlier than home tests.

Additionally, the symptoms she is experiencing, such as breast tenderness and abdominal pain, could be related to hormonal changes from stopping the pill or other factors unrelated to pregnancy. It’s not uncommon for women to experience irregular cycles or symptoms after discontinuing hormonal contraceptives.

In summary, here are the steps I would recommend:
1. Retest for Pregnancy: Wait a few days and take another home pregnancy test, ideally using the first morning urine for the most accurate result.

2. Consult a Doctor: Regardless of the test result, if her period does not arrive or if she continues to experience unusual symptoms, it’s wise to see a healthcare provider. They can perform a blood test for pregnancy and evaluate her symptoms more thoroughly.

3. Continue Contraceptive Use: If the pregnancy test is negative, she can continue taking her contraceptive pills as directed. If there is any uncertainty about the test results, a healthcare provider can give the best advice on whether to continue or pause the medication.

4. Monitor Symptoms: Keep track of any changes in her symptoms, including the timing of her next period and any new symptoms that may arise.

In conclusion, while the situation may feel uncertain and stressful, taking these steps can help clarify her status and ensure she receives the appropriate care. Communication with a healthcare provider is key to navigating these concerns effectively.

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