Pregnancy Symptoms or Delayed Menstruation? Your Situation - Obstetrics and Gynecology

Share to:

I would like to ask whether the symptoms indicate a higher probability of pregnancy or a higher probability of menstruation?


Hello Doctor: I had sexual intercourse with my girlfriend on the 24th of last month.
We did not use a condom, but there was no ejaculation inside.
This month, her period is over two weeks late.
Last month, her period started on May 9 and ended on May 14.
She is currently experiencing lower abdominal pain, elevated body temperature, poor appetite, excessive sleepiness, lower back pain, breast engorgement, and nipple pain.
On June 10, she went to the hospital for a pregnancy test, which showed only one line.
An ultrasound was performed, but no gestational sac was detected.
On June 16 and 19, she also did home pregnancy tests, which also showed only one line.
Yesterday, June 24, she went to the hospital for another pregnancy test, which again showed only one line.
The doctor mentioned that the uterine lining is thick, but did not indicate any signs of pregnancy.
We are still uncertain about the situation and would appreciate your guidance.
Thank you, Doctor.

Xxx, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2019/06/25

Dr. Huang Yiwen reply Obstetrics and Gynecology


Hello Mr.
Xxx: Your girlfriend's current condition may just be a menstrual irregularity.
Since the urine test showed no pregnancy, there is no need to worry too much.
If she continues to feel unwell due to the absence of her period, she may consider using medication to induce menstruation.

Reply Date: 2019/06/25

More Info


Hello! Thank you for sharing your concerns regarding your girlfriend's situation. It sounds like you both are experiencing a lot of uncertainty and anxiety about the possibility of pregnancy, especially given the symptoms she is exhibiting and the delayed menstruation.

First, let's address the symptoms your girlfriend is experiencing: lower abdominal pain, elevated body temperature, decreased appetite, excessive sleepiness, lower back pain, breast tenderness, and nipple pain. These symptoms can indeed be associated with early pregnancy, but they can also be indicative of other conditions, such as hormonal changes, stress, or even premenstrual syndrome (PMS).

The fact that your girlfriend's menstrual cycle is delayed by over two weeks is noteworthy. A missed period is often one of the first signs of pregnancy, but it is not definitive on its own. The negative pregnancy tests she has taken, along with the ultrasound showing no signs of pregnancy, suggest that she may not be pregnant at this time. However, it is important to note that pregnancy tests can sometimes yield false negatives, especially if taken too early or if the urine is diluted.

The thickening of the uterine lining observed during the ultrasound could be a result of hormonal fluctuations, which can occur for various reasons, including stress, changes in weight, or underlying health conditions. If your girlfriend has been under stress or has experienced significant lifestyle changes, these factors could contribute to her symptoms and delayed menstruation.

Given the complexity of her symptoms and the uncertainty surrounding her situation, it would be wise for her to follow up with her healthcare provider. They can conduct further evaluations, including blood tests to check hormone levels, which can provide more definitive answers regarding pregnancy and other potential issues. Blood tests are more sensitive than home pregnancy tests and can detect pregnancy earlier.

In the meantime, it is essential for your girlfriend to take care of herself. Encouraging her to maintain a balanced diet, stay hydrated, and manage stress through relaxation techniques or light exercise can be beneficial. If her symptoms persist or worsen, she should seek medical attention promptly.

Lastly, if there is any concern about the possibility of pregnancy or if she is feeling overwhelmed by the situation, it may be helpful for her to speak with a healthcare professional who can provide guidance and support. Emotional well-being is just as important as physical health, especially during times of uncertainty.

In summary, while the symptoms your girlfriend is experiencing could suggest pregnancy, the negative tests and ultrasound findings indicate otherwise. It is crucial for her to consult with her healthcare provider for further evaluation and to address any ongoing symptoms. Open communication and support from you will also be vital during this time. Thank you for reaching out, and I wish you both the best in navigating this situation!

Similar Q&A

Understanding Delayed Menstruation: Causes Beyond Pregnancy

I’m sorry to hear about your situation. It sounds like you are experiencing premenstrual symptoms, but your period is still delayed. In addition to abdominal pain, you mentioned not feeling excessively sleepy or nauseous, but occasionally feeling warm, which then returns to norma...


Dr. Zhang Kunmin reply Obstetrics and Gynecology
Hello, the effectiveness of emergency contraception taken within 72 hours after intercourse is about 97%. However, it is not 100% effective, and there is approximately a 3% failure rate, but it is still considered a remedial option. Additionally, early pregnancy may not present s...

[Read More] Understanding Delayed Menstruation: Causes Beyond Pregnancy


Missed Period: Pregnancy Signs or Just Delayed Menstruation?

I am preparing to conceive my second child. My last menstrual period started on January 10, and on February 15, I had only a very light flow that lasted for just one day. Since February 5, I have been experiencing some breast tenderness, which continues to this day. I have taken ...


Dr. Huang Yiwen reply Obstetrics and Gynecology
Hello, Miss Gu Tu: Menstrual delays or early pregnancy can present a wide variety of symptoms that make it difficult to determine a diagnosis based solely on symptoms. Ultimately, it requires appropriate patience and observation.

[Read More] Missed Period: Pregnancy Signs or Just Delayed Menstruation?


Menstrual Delay or Pregnancy: Understanding Your Symptoms

Your period was expected on April 11. You had unprotected intercourse on April 9, and you took pregnancy tests on April 20 and April 24, both showing a negative result (one line). You have been experiencing mild menstrual cramps lasting about two minutes. Based on this informatio...


Dr. Cao Guotao reply Obstetrics and Gynecology
Hello, a single line usually indicates that you are not pregnant. It's best to use preventive measures beforehand. If your period is more than a week late, it is advisable to see a gynecologist. Wishing you good health.

[Read More] Menstrual Delay or Pregnancy: Understanding Your Symptoms


Understanding Delayed Menstruation: Pregnancy or Just a Cycle Change?

My girlfriend's period is over two weeks late, and she recently mentioned experiencing sudden stomach pain, but she still feels like her period is coming. Could she be pregnant or is her period just delayed? She sometimes has stomach pain and feels bloated in her lower abdom...


Dr. Zhang Kunmin reply Obstetrics and Gynecology
Hello, based on your description, I recommend that your girlfriend first take a urine pregnancy test. Once pregnancy is confirmed or ruled out, treatment with medication and menstrual regulation can be considered based on her symptoms. Some women may experience gastrointestinal s...

[Read More] Understanding Delayed Menstruation: Pregnancy or Just a Cycle Change?


Related FAQ

Delayed Menstruation

(Obstetrics and Gynecology)

Menstrual Abnormalities

(Obstetrics and Gynecology)

Medication To Delay Menstruation

(Obstetrics and Gynecology)

Am I Pregnant?

(Obstetrics and Gynecology)

Premenstrual Syndrome

(Obstetrics and Gynecology)

Menstrual Cramps

(Obstetrics and Gynecology)

Pregnancy Bleeding

(Obstetrics and Gynecology)

First Menstruation

(Obstetrics and Gynecology)

Pregnancy Date

(Obstetrics and Gynecology)

During Pregnancy

(Obstetrics and Gynecology)