Delayed Periods: Pregnancy Concerns and Common Myths

Are you pregnant?

On May 20, I had sexual intercourse with my girlfriend, but it was only a little penetration because she said it would hurt, so I handled it myself.
At that time, the pregnancy probability shown on the app was moderate, so I thought she wouldn't get pregnant.
However, the app indicated that her period was supposed to arrive on June 7, but it still hasn't come.
I've read many articles about the differences between pregnancy and menstruation, such as symptoms like dizziness, morning sickness, frequent urination, etc., but she doesn't have any of those symptoms.
Yet, her period is still delayed.
Could it be because I've been taking her to eat some cold foods, like watermelon and ice, and I'm wondering if that could cause her period to be late? Just now, my girlfriend checked her vaginal discharge, and the color of her discharge hasn't changed; it is still watery.
Is this normal? Her periods have always been regular, but this month seems strange.
Could it be that she is worried too much, which is causing the delay?
Question 1: Is she pregnant?
Question 2: Could eating cold foods cause her period to be late?
Question 3: Is it normal for her discharge to be watery?
Question 4: Can excessive worry cause a delay in menstruation?
Question 5: How many days late is considered normal for a woman's period?
Question 6: Is it normal for someone who usually has regular periods to be late this month?

Liao Dongjie, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2019/06/10

Dr. Huang Jianzhong reply Obstetrics and Gynecology

On May 20, I had sexual intercourse with my girlfriend, but it was only a little penetration because she said it would hurt, so I took care of it myself.
At that time, the pregnancy probability shown on the app was moderate, so I thought she probably wouldn't get pregnant.
However, the app indicated that her period was supposed to arrive by June 7, but it still hasn't come.
I've read many articles about the differences between pregnancy and menstruation, such as symptoms like dizziness, morning sickness, frequent urination, etc.
She doesn't have any of those symptoms, but her period is still delayed.
Could it be because I've been taking her to eat some cold foods, like watermelon and ice, and I'm wondering if that could cause her period to be late? Just now, my girlfriend checked her vaginal discharge, and the color of her discharge hasn't changed; it appears to be watery.
Is this normal? Her periods have always been regular, but this month seems strange.
Could it be that she's worried too much, which is causing the delay?
Question 1: Is she pregnant?
Answer: No, she is not pregnant.
Question 2: Could eating cold foods cause her period to be late?
Answer: Possibly.
Question 3: Is it normal for her discharge to be watery?
Answer: Yes, it is normal.
Question 4: Could excessive worry cause her period to be late?
Answer: Yes.
Question 5: How many days of delay in menstruation is generally considered normal for women?
Answer: It varies.
Question 6: Is it normal for my girlfriend, who usually has regular periods, to have a delay this month?
Answer: It would be advisable to take a pregnancy test.

Reply Date: 2019/06/10

More Info

When it comes to understanding delayed periods and the concerns surrounding potential pregnancy, it's essential to approach the situation with a clear understanding of the biological processes involved and to dispel common myths. Let's address your questions one by one.

Question 1: Is she pregnant?
Given the circumstances you described, where penetration was minimal and you did not ejaculate inside, the likelihood of pregnancy is low, but not impossible. Sperm can be present in pre-ejaculate fluid, and if any sperm made its way into the vagina, there is a chance of conception. The most reliable way to determine pregnancy is through a home pregnancy test, which can be taken after a missed period for the most accurate results.

Question 2: Can eating cold foods delay her period?
No, consuming cold foods such as watermelon or ice does not affect menstrual cycles. This is a common myth. Menstrual cycles are regulated by hormonal changes in the body, and while diet can influence overall health, it does not directly cause delays in menstruation.

Question 3: Is watery discharge normal?
Watery discharge can be normal and is often a sign of ovulation or hormonal fluctuations. If the discharge is clear and odorless, it is typically not a cause for concern. However, if there are changes in color, odor, or if it is accompanied by discomfort, it may be worth consulting a healthcare provider.

Question 4: Can excessive worry delay her period?
Yes, stress and anxiety can impact menstrual cycles. The body’s response to stress can disrupt the hormonal balance necessary for ovulation and menstruation, potentially leading to a delayed period. If your girlfriend is feeling anxious about the possibility of pregnancy, this could contribute to her cycle being off.

Question 5: How many days late is considered normal?
A delay of a few days can be normal for many women, especially if they have a history of regular cycles. It is common for periods to be late by a few days due to various factors, including stress, changes in routine, or minor health issues. However, if a period is more than a week late, it is advisable to take a pregnancy test or consult a healthcare provider.

Question 6: Is it normal for her previously regular period to be late this month?
While it can be concerning when a previously regular cycle is delayed, it is not uncommon for women to experience occasional irregularities in their menstrual cycles. Factors such as stress, changes in weight, exercise habits, or even illness can contribute to this. If the delay continues or if there are other concerning symptoms, seeking medical advice would be prudent.

In conclusion, while the possibility of pregnancy exists, the likelihood seems low based on your description. It’s important for your girlfriend to take a pregnancy test for clarity. Additionally, understanding that stress and lifestyle factors can influence menstrual cycles may help alleviate some of the anxiety surrounding this situation. If her period does not arrive soon, or if there are any unusual symptoms, consulting a healthcare professional would be the best course of action.

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