Irregular Periods and Pregnancy Concerns: Key Questions Answered

Pregnancy issues

I usually have my period for about 6 days.
My cycle has become a bit irregular, alternating between 28-29 days one month and 40-42 days the next, and this has been going on for about six months.
Recently, my cycles have become somewhat more regular, with the last few periods occurring on 2/1, 3/5, and 3/31.
The last period came earlier because I took emergency contraception.
This month, on 4/7, I had one instance of condom use and one instance of withdrawal.
When my partner felt he was about to ejaculate, he withdrew and used his hand.
On 4/16, there was another instance of condom use.
Then, yesterday, on 4/20, I suddenly developed a fever of 38.5 degrees Celsius, along with a headache and sore throat.
I went to see a doctor who noted some swelling in my throat.
Afterward, I suddenly felt very dizzy and nauseous, almost fainting.
I had never experienced this before.
After sitting down and resting with my eyes closed, I felt better.
Initially, I thought it might be a cold, but since my fever broke yesterday, I haven't had any further symptoms, which I find strange.
I'm starting to wonder if I might be pregnant because I read online that body temperature can rise during pregnancy.
So, I would like to ask the doctor: 1.
Could this not be a cold but rather a sign of pregnancy? What is the likelihood of pregnancy? 2.
If I take a pregnancy test today or tomorrow and it shows one line, can I be certain that I am not pregnant? 3.
If this is indeed a cold, will taking cold medication affect the delay of my period?

Yang, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2019/04/21

Dr. Huang Jianzhong reply Obstetrics and Gynecology

My menstrual period usually lasts about 6 days, but my cycle has become a bit irregular, alternating between 28-29 days one month and 40-42 days the next month for about six months.
Recently, my cycle has become somewhat more regular, with my last few periods occurring on 2/1, 3/5, and 3/31.
The last period came earlier because I took emergency contraception.
On 4/7, I had one instance of condom use and one instance of withdrawal.
When my partner felt he was about to ejaculate, he pulled out and used his hand.
On 4/16, there was another instance of condom use.
Then, on 4/20, I suddenly developed a fever of 38.5 degrees Celsius, accompanied by a headache and a sore throat.
I went to see a doctor who noted some swelling in my throat.
Later, I experienced severe dizziness and nausea, feeling as if I was about to faint, which I had never experienced before.
After sitting down and resting with my eyes closed, I felt better.
Initially, I thought it was a cold, but since my fever subsided yesterday, I have not had any further symptoms, which I find strange.
I am now wondering if I might be pregnant because I read online that body temperature can rise during pregnancy.
So, I would like to ask the doctor:
1.
Could this be pregnancy instead of a cold?
Answer: It is a cold.
2.
What is the likelihood of pregnancy?
Answer: Given the last menstrual period on 3/31, with condom use on 4/7 and 4/16, the likelihood of pregnancy is low.
3.
If I take a pregnancy test today or tomorrow and it shows one line, can I be certain that I am not pregnant?
Answer: A pregnancy test today or tomorrow cannot confirm pregnancy.
4.
If it is indeed a cold, will taking cold medication affect the delay of my period?
Answer: Yes, it can affect the timing of your period.

Reply Date: 2019/04/21

More Info

Understanding irregular menstrual cycles and the associated concerns during potential pregnancy can be quite complex, especially when symptoms such as fever and fatigue arise. Let's address your questions systematically.

1. Could the symptoms indicate pregnancy instead of a cold? What is the likelihood of being pregnant?
Given your irregular menstrual cycle, it can be challenging to determine your ovulation and fertile window accurately. The symptoms you described—fever, headache, sore throat, and dizziness—are more commonly associated with viral infections or other illnesses rather than pregnancy. However, it is essential to note that some women experience early pregnancy symptoms that can mimic those of a cold or flu. The likelihood of pregnancy depends on several factors, including the timing of intercourse relative to your ovulation. If you had unprotected intercourse during your fertile window, there is a possibility of pregnancy. However, if you used protection and there was no direct ejaculation inside, the risk is significantly reduced.

2. If a pregnancy test shows one line today or tomorrow, can we confirm that pregnancy is not occurring?
A home pregnancy test detects the hormone hCG (human chorionic gonadotropin) in your urine, which is produced shortly after a fertilized egg attaches to the uterine lining. If you take the test too early, it may not detect the hormone even if you are pregnant, leading to a false negative. Generally, it's advisable to wait until at least the first day of your missed period for the most accurate results. If you test today or tomorrow and see one line, it suggests that you are likely not pregnant, but if your period does not arrive soon, retesting after a few days would be prudent.

3. If it is indeed a cold, could taking cold medication delay my period?
Cold medications typically do not directly affect your menstrual cycle. However, stress, illness, and changes in your body can influence your cycle. If you are feeling unwell or stressed, it could potentially lead to a delay in your period. Additionally, some cold medications may contain ingredients that can affect your overall health, but they are unlikely to cause a significant delay in menstruation.

Additional Considerations:
- Irregular Cycles: Irregular menstrual cycles can be caused by various factors, including hormonal imbalances, stress, weight changes, and underlying health conditions. If your cycles remain irregular, it may be beneficial to consult with a healthcare provider to explore potential causes and treatments.

- Monitoring Symptoms: Keep track of your symptoms, including any changes in your menstrual cycle, and communicate these with your healthcare provider. This information can help in diagnosing any potential issues.

- Pregnancy Testing: If you suspect pregnancy, consider using a digital pregnancy test for clarity, as they often provide clearer results. If you have any doubts or concerns, consulting with a healthcare professional is always a good idea.

- Health and Wellness: Maintaining a healthy lifestyle, including a balanced diet, regular exercise, and adequate sleep, can help regulate your menstrual cycle and improve your overall health.

In summary, while your symptoms may raise concerns about pregnancy, they are more likely indicative of a viral infection. Testing for pregnancy after a missed period will provide more reliable results. If your menstrual irregularities persist or if you have further health concerns, seeking medical advice is recommended.

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