Pregnancy Tests and Abnormal Discharge in Women - Obstetrics and Gynecology

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Pregnancy Test and Discharge


On June 29, I had unprotected intercourse, and my last menstrual period started on June 21.
I took morning urine pregnancy tests on days 14, 17, and 21 after intercourse, and all results were negative.
On July 16, I initially had brown discharge that later turned into bright red blood, which lasted for about 6 days.
My previous menstrual flow has always been heavy, but this time it was slightly lighter, and the color of the blood was darker, more blackish-red, which made me a bit worried about whether it was really my period.
On July 26, I took another morning urine pregnancy test, and the result was still negative.
I am unsure if this means I can rule out pregnancy.
Occasionally, I experience brown discharge accompanied by the brownish discharge.
Could this indicate a vaginal infection?

P, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2018/07/26

Dr. Lin Manying reply Obstetrics and Gynecology


Hello, miss: The pregnancy tests conducted 14, 17, and 21 days after the last sexual intercourse were negative, which rules out pregnancy.
The bleeding you described seems more like a menstrual irregularity.
Please visit a gynecologist for an examination.
The Hualien Hospital of the Ministry of Health and Welfare cares about your health.

Reply Date: 2018/07/26

More Info


Understanding pregnancy tests and abnormal discharge can be quite complex, especially when you are experiencing unusual symptoms. Based on your description, let’s break down the situation and provide some insights.

Firstly, you mentioned having unprotected intercourse on June 29, with your last menstrual period starting on June 21. You performed home pregnancy tests on July 14, 17, and 21, all of which returned negative results. It’s important to note that home pregnancy tests are generally reliable when used correctly, particularly when taken after a missed period. However, testing too early can lead to false negatives, especially if your body has not yet produced enough human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG), the hormone detected by these tests.

The fact that you experienced a change in discharge starting July 16, transitioning from brownish to bright red blood over six days, could indicate a few possibilities. The color and consistency of menstrual blood can vary significantly from cycle to cycle. Darker blood often indicates older blood, which may have taken longer to exit the uterus. If this bleeding is lighter than your usual menstrual flow, it could be classified as a lighter period or even spotting.

Regarding your concern about whether this bleeding could indicate pregnancy despite negative tests, it is possible but unlikely. If you were pregnant, you would typically expect to see a positive result on a pregnancy test by now, especially given the time elapsed since your last intercourse. However, if you continue to have doubts, a blood test at a healthcare provider can measure hCG levels more accurately than home tests.

You also mentioned experiencing brown discharge accompanied by some discomfort, which raises the question of whether this could be related to a vaginal infection. Brown discharge can sometimes occur due to hormonal fluctuations, but it can also be a sign of an infection or other underlying issues. If you are experiencing symptoms such as itching, burning, or a strong odor, it would be advisable to consult a healthcare professional for an evaluation. They can perform tests to determine if you have a vaginal infection, such as bacterial vaginosis or a yeast infection.

In summary, based on your timeline and symptoms, it seems less likely that you are pregnant, especially with the negative home tests. However, if your symptoms persist or worsen, or if you have any additional concerns, it is crucial to seek medical advice. A healthcare provider can offer a thorough examination and appropriate testing to rule out any infections or other conditions that may be causing your symptoms.
Additionally, maintaining a healthy lifestyle, including a balanced diet and regular exercise, can support your reproductive health. If you have irregular cycles or other concerns about your menstrual health, discussing these with a healthcare provider can provide you with tailored advice and treatment options.

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