Missed Period: Could It Be Pregnancy or Herbal Medicine Effects?

Possible pregnancy, delayed menstruation?

Hello Doctor, I am the patient with ID 147292.
Yesterday, on July 5th, around 3 PM, I used a pregnancy test from Shuwei, and it only showed one line.
However, my period is still delayed by 8 days.

1.
Can I rule out the possibility of pregnancy?
2.
Additionally, I forgot to mention that I have been taking traditional Chinese medicine since June to regulate my body.
I am not sure about the specific herbs, but last week I consumed three doses of Siwu Decoction.
Could the delay be related to taking the herbal medicine?
3.
Does traditional Chinese medicine affect menstrual delays? Thank you, Doctor!

mike, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2019/07/06

Dr. Huang Jianzhong reply Obstetrics and Gynecology

Yesterday, on July 5th, around 3 PM, I used a pregnancy test from Shuwei, and it only showed one line.
However, my period is still late by 8 days.
1.
Can I rule out the possibility of pregnancy? Answer: Test again on July 12.
2.
Additionally, I forgot to mention that I have been taking traditional Chinese medicine since June to regulate my body.
I'm not sure about the herbs, but last week I consumed three doses of Siwu Decoction.
Could the delay be related to taking the herbal medicine? Answer: Possibly.
3.
Can traditional Chinese medicine affect menstrual delays? Answer: Some herbal medicines can cause delayed menstruation.

Reply Date: 2019/07/06

More Info

When it comes to missed periods, the potential for pregnancy is a common concern, especially when combined with the use of herbal medicine. Let's address your questions systematically.

1. Can pregnancy be ruled out?
A home pregnancy test (HPT) is generally reliable, especially if used correctly. Most HPTs can detect pregnancy as early as the first day of a missed period, and some can even detect it a few days before the expected period. If your test showed only one line, it typically indicates that you are not pregnant. However, it is important to consider that HPTs can sometimes yield false negatives, particularly if taken too early or if the urine is diluted. If your period is still delayed, it may be wise to retest in a few days or consult a healthcare provider for a blood test, which can detect pregnancy earlier and more accurately.

2. Could herbal medicine affect my menstrual cycle?
Herbal remedies can indeed influence menstrual cycles, depending on the ingredients and their effects on hormonal balance. For instance, some herbs are known to have estrogenic properties or can affect the hypothalamic-pituitary-ovarian axis, which regulates menstruation. The "Four Substance Decoction" (Si Wu Tang), which you mentioned, is traditionally used in Chinese medicine to nourish the blood and regulate menstruation. While it is generally considered safe, individual responses can vary. If you have been consuming herbal medicine consistently, it is possible that it could contribute to changes in your menstrual cycle, including delays.

3. Do herbal medicines affect delayed menstruation?
Yes, certain herbal medicines can impact menstrual cycles. Some herbs may promote menstruation, while others may delay it. The effects depend on the specific herbs used, their dosages, and your individual health status. If you have been taking herbal remedies and are experiencing a delayed period, it is plausible that the herbs could be a contributing factor. However, it is essential to differentiate between the effects of herbal medicine and other potential causes of a missed period, such as stress, changes in weight, or underlying health conditions.

In conclusion, while your home pregnancy test suggests that you are not pregnant, it is advisable to monitor your symptoms and consider retesting if your period does not arrive soon. Additionally, if you suspect that the herbal medicine may be affecting your menstrual cycle, it would be prudent to consult with a healthcare professional who is knowledgeable about both Western and traditional Chinese medicine. They can provide personalized advice based on your health history and the specific herbs you have been taking. If you continue to experience irregularities in your menstrual cycle, further evaluation may be necessary to rule out any underlying conditions.

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