Bleeding and Fever: Is It Pregnancy or Just a Cold?

Bleeding with fever?

Hello Doctor: I had unprotected intercourse with my boyfriend on April 22 and took emergency contraception.
My period was delayed by five days, and this morning (April 28) I experienced bleeding similar to a normal menstrual flow accompanied by mild cramping in my lower abdomen.
However, since yesterday afternoon, I have also been experiencing body aches, fever, and brown discharge.
I visited a general ENT doctor, who suggested that my fever was due to constipation and prescribed a laxative.
After taking it in the evening, I was able to have a bowel movement and my fever subsided.
However, this afternoon my temperature rose again to 37.4–37.7°C.
Could this situation indicate implantation bleeding, or is it just a common cold combined with my menstrual cycle?

xyz, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2019/04/28

Dr. Huang Jianzhong reply Obstetrics and Gynecology

On April 22, I had protected intercourse with my boyfriend and took emergency contraception.
My period was delayed by five days, and today (April 28) I experienced bleeding similar to a regular menstrual flow, accompanied by mild cramping in my lower abdomen.
However, since yesterday afternoon, I have also had symptoms of generalized body aches, fever, and brown discharge.
I visited an ENT specialist, who suggested that the fever was due to constipation and prescribed a laxative.
After taking it in the evening, I was able to have a bowel movement and my fever subsided.
However, this afternoon my temperature rose again to 37.4 to 37.7 degrees Celsius.
Could this situation indicate implantation bleeding, or is it just a common cold along with my menstrual period? Answer: It is likely just a common cold along with your menstrual period, not implantation bleeding.

Reply Date: 2019/04/28

More Info

When it comes to understanding the symptoms of bleeding and fever in relation to pregnancy, it is essential to consider various factors that could contribute to these symptoms. In your case, you mentioned having unprotected intercourse on April 22 and subsequently taking emergency contraception. You also noted a delay in your menstrual cycle by five days, followed by bleeding that resembled a typical menstrual flow, accompanied by mild abdominal discomfort and systemic symptoms such as body aches and fever.

Firstly, it is important to clarify that the bleeding you experienced could be attributed to several factors. One possibility is that it is indeed your menstrual period, especially since you mentioned it occurred five days late. Menstrual cycles can sometimes be irregular due to stress, hormonal fluctuations, or other factors, which might explain the delay. The presence of mild abdominal pain is also common during menstruation.

However, the symptoms of fever and body aches raise additional considerations. The fever you experienced, particularly if it fluctuates between 37.4°C and 37.7°C, could indicate an underlying infection or illness, such as a viral infection (like a cold or flu) or even a gastrointestinal issue. The fact that you were advised by an ENT specialist that your fever might be related to constipation suggests that there could be a non-pregnancy-related cause for your symptoms. Constipation can lead to discomfort and, in some cases, a mild fever due to the body's inflammatory response.

Regarding the possibility of pregnancy, the use of emergency contraception is designed to prevent pregnancy after unprotected intercourse. If taken correctly, it is effective in reducing the likelihood of pregnancy. However, if you are experiencing bleeding after taking the emergency contraceptive, it could be a side effect of the medication, which can cause changes in your menstrual cycle, including spotting or breakthrough bleeding.

To determine whether you are pregnant or if your symptoms are related to another cause, it is advisable to take a home pregnancy test. These tests are most accurate when taken after a missed period. If the test is positive, it would be prudent to follow up with a healthcare provider for further evaluation. If the test is negative and your symptoms persist, especially the fever and body aches, it would be wise to consult a healthcare professional for a thorough examination to rule out any infections or other medical conditions.

In summary, while the bleeding you experienced could be your menstrual period, the accompanying fever and body aches suggest that there may be another underlying issue at play. It is crucial to monitor your symptoms closely and seek medical advice if they worsen or do not resolve. Remember, early intervention is key to managing any potential health concerns effectively.

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