Pregnancy Tests: Delayed Period and Medication Concerns

Pregnancy test questions?

Hello Doctor, I am #143161.
My menstrual period was expected around the 18th, but it hasn't arrived yet.
I took a pregnancy test on the 14th (8 days after intercourse) and on the 18th (12 days after intercourse), and both tests showed a single line.
I have detailed the circumstances of the intercourse in #143161.
Today marks the fifth day of my missed period.
Could it be that my recent anxiety about possibly being pregnant, combined with staying up late until 2 AM for finals, is affecting my cycle? I have tested twice with negative results, but my period still hasn't come, and I'm hesitating whether to test again.
Additionally, I've caught a cold and have been hesitant to take cold medication, wanting to wait until the 18th to test again (I've read that testing after 18 days can confirm results).
However, I'm really uncomfortable.
I would like to ask if cold medication could affect the pregnancy test results? The cold medication mainly includes fever reducers, cough suppressants, and decongestants.
I also have asthma medication called budesonide/formoterol.
Would using these affect the test results, or should I wait until after the 18th to take the medication? Thank you.

Mu Mu, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2019/01/23

Dr. Huang Jianzhong reply Obstetrics and Gynecology

My period was expected to start around the 18th, but it hasn't arrived yet.
I took a pregnancy test on the 14th (8 days after intercourse) and again on the 18th (12 days after intercourse), and both times the result was a single line.
I detailed the circumstances of the intercourse in post #143161.
Today marks the fifth day of my missed period, and I'm wondering if my recent anxiety about possibly being pregnant, combined with staying up late studying for finals until 2 AM, could be affecting my cycle.
I have already tested twice with negative results, but my period still hasn't come, and I'm hesitating whether to test again.
Additionally, I've caught a cold and have been hesitant to take cold medicine because I want to wait until the 18th to test again (I've read that testing after 18 days can confirm the result).
However, I'm feeling really uncomfortable.
I would like to know if cold medicine could affect the pregnancy test results? The cold medicine mainly includes fever reducers, cough suppressants, and decongestants, and I also have an asthma medication called budesonide/formoterol.
Will using these affect the results, or should I wait until after the 18th to take the medication?
Answer: Cold medicine is unlikely to affect the results of a pregnancy test.

Reply Date: 2019/01/23

More Info

When it comes to understanding pregnancy tests, delayed periods, and medication concerns, there are several factors to consider. Based on your situation, it seems that you are experiencing a delayed menstrual cycle, which can be influenced by various factors, including stress, lifestyle changes, and potential pregnancy.

Firstly, it is important to note that home pregnancy tests are generally reliable, especially when used correctly. The tests work by detecting the hormone human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) in your urine, which is produced shortly after a fertilized egg attaches to the uterine lining. If you have taken two tests on the 14th and 18th day after potential conception and both returned negative results, it is less likely that you are pregnant. However, it is still possible to receive a false negative, especially if the test is taken too early or if the urine is diluted.

Regarding your delayed period, stress and lifestyle factors can significantly impact your menstrual cycle. The stress of exams, late nights, and changes in routine can lead to hormonal fluctuations that may delay your period. It is not uncommon for women to experience irregular cycles during stressful times, and this could explain the delay you are experiencing.

As for your concerns about medications, most over-the-counter cold medications, such as those for fever, cough, and nasal congestion, do not typically affect the accuracy of pregnancy tests. However, it is always wise to consult with a healthcare professional regarding specific medications, especially if you have underlying conditions like asthma and are using inhalers like budesonide (Pulmicort). Generally, medications that are safe during pregnancy are also safe to take while you are waiting for a definitive pregnancy test result.

If you are feeling unwell due to your cold, it is advisable to treat your symptoms, as untreated illnesses can lead to further complications. However, if you are still concerned about the possibility of being pregnant, you may want to wait until the 18th day post-ovulation to take another test for more accurate results. This is because hCG levels double approximately every 48 hours in early pregnancy, and waiting a few more days could provide a clearer picture.

In summary, while your negative pregnancy tests suggest that you are not pregnant, the delay in your period could be due to stress or other lifestyle factors. If your period does not arrive soon, or if you continue to experience symptoms that concern you, it would be prudent to consult with a healthcare provider. They can offer further testing or evaluation to determine the cause of your delayed period and any other symptoms you may be experiencing. Remember, your health and well-being are the top priority, so do not hesitate to seek medical advice when needed.

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