Pregnancy Tests and Miscarriage: Key Insights for Women

Medical terminology: Pregnancy status

I would like to consult a physician.
If I visited the clinic on March 12 and the doctor's notes indicated irregular menstruation, but a pregnancy test using an enzyme immunoassay was performed, is this a method for testing pregnancy? How does it differ from over-the-counter pregnancy tests? Then, during my follow-up appointment on March 20, the doctor's notes mentioned a threatened miscarriage.
Does this indicate that there is a pregnancy and medication is needed for a medical abortion, or is it just a medical term similar to the explanation in #8118? It could mean that there is a need to support the pregnancy, but it does not necessarily indicate a miscarriage.
Should pregnancy be confirmed at this point? What if I get my period a week later? Is that possible? I have read online that some people say that early embryos can be unstable and may be lost along with menstruation.
I am curious about how menstruation can occur if one is pregnant; this is something I do not understand.
Could it be explained as instability, leading to bleeding? Thank you.
Additionally, both times the doctor prescribed antacids.
Does this mean that the medication is intended to alleviate gastrointestinal discomfort due to pregnancy?

Mr. Su, 40~49 year old female. Ask Date: 2019/03/30

Dr. Huang Jianzhong reply Obstetrics and Gynecology

On March 12, I visited the clinic, and the doctor's notes indicated irregular menstrual periods, yet a pregnancy test using an enzyme immunoassay was conducted.
Is this a method of testing for pregnancy? How does it differ from over-the-counter pregnancy tests? Answer: They should be similar.
Then, on March 20, I had another appointment, and the doctor's notes mentioned "threatened miscarriage." Does this indicate that I am pregnant and require medical management for a miscarriage, or is it just a medical term? According to the response in #8118, it may suggest the need for supportive care to maintain the pregnancy, but it does not necessarily mean a miscarriage is imminent.
However, can pregnancy be confirmed? Answer: The term "threatened miscarriage" is a medical term indicating that you may be experiencing early pregnancy complications, such as lower abdominal pain and vaginal bleeding.
At this stage, it is essential to follow your doctor's advice, which may include medication to support the pregnancy and increased bed rest to prevent miscarriage.
Taoyuan General Hospital, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology: Dr.
Huang Jian-Hsun.
If I were to have my period a week later, is that possible? I have read online that some people say that early embryos can be unstable and may be lost along with menstruation.
I am curious about how one can still have a period if pregnant; this is something I do not understand.
Is it simply that the pregnancy is unstable, leading to bleeding? Answer: ?? Additionally, the doctor prescribed antacids on two occasions.
Does this indicate that the medication is meant to alleviate gastrointestinal discomfort due to pregnancy? Answer: Yes.

Reply Date: 2019/03/30

More Info

Understanding pregnancy tests and the potential for miscarriage is crucial for women navigating early pregnancy. The scenario you presented raises several important points regarding pregnancy testing, the implications of medical terminology, and the physiological responses that can occur during early pregnancy.

First, let's clarify the pregnancy test you mentioned. The enzyme immunoassay (EIA) used in a clinical setting is indeed a method for detecting pregnancy. This test works by measuring the levels of human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) in the blood, a hormone produced shortly after a fertilized egg attaches to the uterine lining. This method is generally more sensitive than over-the-counter urine pregnancy tests, which typically detect hCG in urine. While both tests aim to determine pregnancy, the blood test can often detect pregnancy earlier and provide quantitative results, which can help assess the viability of the pregnancy.

Regarding the term "迫切流產" (imminent miscarriage), it indicates that there is a concern about the pregnancy's viability. This does not necessarily mean that a miscarriage is inevitable, but it does suggest that the healthcare provider is monitoring the situation closely. In early pregnancy, it is not uncommon for women to experience bleeding or spotting, which can sometimes be mistaken for a menstrual period. This bleeding can occur for various reasons, including implantation bleeding or a threatened miscarriage.
If you experienced bleeding a week after a positive pregnancy test, it could be due to several factors. In some cases, women may have a very early miscarriage, often referred to as a chemical pregnancy, where the pregnancy hormone hCG is detected, but the embryo does not develop properly. This can lead to a situation where a woman experiences bleeding similar to a menstrual period.
It's also important to note that some women may experience light bleeding or spotting during early pregnancy, which does not necessarily indicate a miscarriage. This bleeding can occur due to hormonal changes or the body adjusting to the pregnancy. However, any bleeding during pregnancy should be discussed with a healthcare provider to rule out complications.

Regarding the medication you mentioned, "舒胃錠" (a medication for gastrointestinal discomfort), it is common for healthcare providers to prescribe medications to alleviate symptoms such as nausea or gastrointestinal discomfort during early pregnancy. These symptoms can be due to hormonal changes, and managing them can help improve the overall well-being of the pregnant individual.

In summary, if you are experiencing irregularities in your menstrual cycle, positive pregnancy tests, and subsequent bleeding, it is essential to maintain open communication with your healthcare provider. They can provide guidance based on your specific situation and help monitor the health of your pregnancy. Early pregnancy can be a time of uncertainty, but understanding the signs and symptoms, along with professional medical advice, can help navigate this complex period. Always seek immediate medical attention if you have concerns about your health or the health of your pregnancy.

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