Abnormal Vaginal Bleeding: Could It Be Pregnancy?

Genital bleeding

Hello, doctor: My last menstrual period started on August 3 and ended on August 9.
I had unprotected intercourse on August 19 and 22 during my ovulation period.
After that, I experienced some nausea, but it went away after a while, and I found myself wanting to eat constantly.
Is it possible that I could be pregnant?
My next period was expected on September 2, but it did not come.
On the morning of September 5, I had unprotected intercourse again, and during the act, I experienced severe lower abdominal pain that made me break out in a cold sweat and feel weak.
Later, I noticed some bleeding and thought my period had started, but the blood has been brownish, with some light pink and pale red colors, which is not the deep red color typical of my menstrual flow.
The amount is also much less than usual, with some small blood clots.
Now, on the sixth day, there is only a little bit of brown blood left.
I would like to know if this is my period or if I should buy a pregnancy test.
Is it possible to detect pregnancy at this point?

M, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2018/09/10

Dr. Huang Jianzhong reply Obstetrics and Gynecology

Last month, my period started on August 3 and ended on August 9.
I had unprotected intercourse on August 19 and 22 during my ovulation period.
After that, I experienced some nausea, but it went away after a while, and I also found myself wanting to eat constantly.
Is it possible that I am pregnant?
Answer: Since you had unprotected intercourse during your ovulation period, there is a possibility of pregnancy.
Your period was expected on September 2 but did not arrive.
On September 5, I had unprotected intercourse again, and during the act, I experienced severe lower abdominal pain that made me break out in a cold sweat and feel weak.
Later, I noticed some bleeding and initially thought it was my period, but over the past few days, the blood has been brownish, with some light pink and faint red colors, which is not the deep red color typical of menstruation.
The flow is also much lighter than usual, with some small blood clots.
Now, on the sixth day, there is only a little bit of brown blood left.
I would like to know if this is my period or if I should buy a pregnancy test.
Can I test for pregnancy?
Answer: You can buy a pregnancy test to check.

Reply Date: 2018/09/10

More Info

Understanding abnormal vaginal bleeding during early pregnancy can be quite complex, and it’s essential to consider various factors that could contribute to the symptoms you are experiencing. Based on your description, it seems you have had unprotected intercourse during your fertile window, which raises the possibility of pregnancy. However, the bleeding you are experiencing is atypical for a regular menstrual period, and it could indicate several things.

Firstly, the timing of your last menstrual period (LMP) and the subsequent symptoms you described, such as nausea and increased appetite, could suggest early pregnancy. The absence of your expected period on September 2nd is another indicator that you might be pregnant. However, the bleeding you experienced afterward, characterized by brown, pink, and light red colors, is not typical of a regular menstrual flow. This type of bleeding could be implantation bleeding, which occurs when a fertilized egg attaches to the lining of the uterus, typically around the time your period would have been due.

Given that the bleeding has persisted for six days and is not as heavy as a normal menstrual period, it is advisable to take a home pregnancy test. Home pregnancy tests are designed to detect the hormone human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG), which is produced shortly after a fertilized egg attaches to the uterine lining. Since you have missed your period, it is likely that the test will yield accurate results at this point. It is best to follow the instructions on the test for the most reliable outcome.

If the test is positive, it is crucial to schedule an appointment with your healthcare provider for further evaluation. They may perform a blood test to measure hCG levels and conduct an ultrasound to confirm the pregnancy and rule out any complications, especially given your experience of abdominal pain and unusual bleeding.

On the other hand, if the test is negative and the bleeding continues or worsens, it is essential to consult a healthcare professional. The symptoms you describe could also be indicative of other conditions, such as hormonal imbalances, early miscarriage, or other gynecological issues.
In summary, while there is a possibility that you could be pregnant given the circumstances, the unusual bleeding and abdominal pain warrant further investigation. Taking a home pregnancy test is a reasonable next step, and regardless of the outcome, seeking medical advice is crucial to ensure your health and well-being. Remember, early prenatal care is vital for a healthy pregnancy, so do not hesitate to reach out to your healthcare provider with any concerns.

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