Am I Pregnant? Delayed Periods and Symptoms

Are you pregnant?

Hello doctor, my period started on June 5th, and as of now, July 21st, it still hasn't arrived.
I had sexual intercourse in June, and we used a condom the entire time.
I have seen a traditional Chinese medicine doctor for menstrual regulation, and I have finished the medication, but my period still hasn't come.
On July 9th and 10th, I noticed watery discharge and thought my period was about to start, but it didn't.
The doctor checked my pulse and mentioned there were signs that my period might come.
Could you please tell me the likelihood of pregnancy? Is it true that checking the pulse may not necessarily indicate whether or not I am pregnant? I currently have no symptoms that my period is coming.
Sometimes, when my period is about to start or ends, I have watery discharge; is this abnormal?

Lin Lin, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2018/07/20

Dr. Cao Guotao reply Obstetrics and Gynecology

Hello, the chances of getting pregnant are low, but it is always best to take preventive measures beforehand.
Do not rely on the safe period.
If your period is delayed by two to three days, it is advisable to see a gynecologist.
Wishing you good health.

Reply Date: 2018/07/20

More Info

When it comes to understanding delayed periods and the possibility of pregnancy, it’s essential to consider various factors that can influence menstrual cycles. Based on your description, you experienced your last menstrual period on June 5th, and as of July 21st, you have not had another period. You mentioned having sexual intercourse in June with protection (condoms), and you have consulted a traditional Chinese medicine practitioner for menstrual regulation, but your period has still not returned.

First and foremost, it’s important to note that while a delayed period can be a sign of pregnancy, it is not the only reason for a missed period. Stress, hormonal imbalances, changes in weight, and underlying health conditions can all contribute to irregular menstrual cycles. In your case, since you have been under the care of a healthcare provider and have taken medication to regulate your cycle, it’s possible that your body is still adjusting.

The fact that you had sexual intercourse with a condom significantly reduces the likelihood of pregnancy, but it is not 100% effective. If the condom was used correctly and did not break, the chances of pregnancy are quite low. However, if you are experiencing any symptoms that are unusual for you, such as changes in discharge or other physical symptoms, it may be worth considering a pregnancy test for peace of mind.

Regarding your observation of watery discharge, it is not uncommon for women to experience changes in cervical mucus throughout their menstrual cycle. Watery discharge can occur at various times, including just before ovulation or even in the days leading up to your period. However, if this is accompanied by other unusual symptoms or if you have concerns, it would be advisable to consult with a healthcare provider for further evaluation.

As for the pulse diagnosis performed by your traditional Chinese medicine practitioner, while it can provide insights into your overall health and balance, it is not a definitive method for diagnosing pregnancy. Traditional Chinese medicine often focuses on the body's energy and balance, which can be helpful in understanding menstrual irregularities, but it should be complemented with modern medical evaluations when it comes to pregnancy testing.

In summary, while the likelihood of pregnancy seems low given your use of protection, it is still advisable to take a home pregnancy test if your period does not arrive soon. If the test is negative and your period still does not come, or if you continue to experience unusual symptoms, it would be prudent to follow up with a healthcare provider. They can conduct further examinations, including blood tests or ultrasounds, to determine the underlying cause of your delayed period and any other symptoms you may be experiencing. Remember, your health and peace of mind are paramount, so don’t hesitate to seek further medical advice if needed.

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