Am I Pregnant? Symptoms and When to Test - Obstetrics and Gynecology

Are you pregnant?

Doctor, my period is 2 days late.
Two days ago, I had a pulse diagnosis with a Traditional Chinese Medicine practitioner, who said it felt slippery (I found online that this could indicate pregnancy or premenstrual symptoms).
I occasionally feel a dull pain in my lower abdomen, and my breasts are tender to the touch.
My body temperature is quite high at 37.7°C, and I feel quite dizzy.
There has been no discharge, and when I wipe after using the restroom, the color is somewhat yellow; I'm not sure if it's urine or discharge.
Ten days ago, I used a condom and withdrew before ejaculation, and the condom did not break! My periods have typically only been 2 days late.

1.
Am I pregnant?
2.
When I wipe after using the restroom, the yellow color—could that be urine or discharge?
3.
Is it normal to have no discharge before my period?
4.
If my period doesn't come, when can I take a pregnancy test?
5.
Does anxiety and stress contribute to a delayed period?

Niming, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2019/09/11

Dr. Huang Jianzhong reply Obstetrics and Gynecology

I am 2 days late for my period.
Two days ago, I had my pulse checked by a traditional Chinese medicine doctor, who said it felt slippery (which I found online could indicate pregnancy or premenstrual symptoms).
I occasionally feel a dull pain in my lower abdomen, and my breasts are tender to the touch.
My body temperature is quite high at 37.7°C, and I feel quite dizzy.
There is no discharge, but when I wipe after using the restroom, it appears somewhat yellow; I'm not sure if it's urine or discharge.
Ten days ago, I used a condom and withdrew before ejaculation, and it did not break! My periods have typically only been 2 days late in the past.
1.
Am I pregnant?
Answer: No, you are not pregnant.
2.
Is the yellow color when I wipe after using the restroom urine or discharge?
Answer: It could be either.
3.
Is it normal to have no discharge before my period?
Answer: Yes, it is normal.
4.
If my period does not come, when can I take a pregnancy test?
Answer: You can test on 9/17.
5.
Does feeling anxious and nervous cause my period to be late?
Answer: Yes, it can cause a delay in your period.

Reply Date: 2019/09/11

More Info

When it comes to determining whether you are pregnant, it can be a complex process, especially when you are experiencing symptoms that could be attributed to either premenstrual syndrome (PMS) or early pregnancy. Let's break down your questions and concerns systematically.

1. Am I Pregnant?: Given that your period is two days late and you have experienced symptoms such as abdominal discomfort, breast tenderness, and elevated body temperature, there is a possibility that you could be pregnant. However, these symptoms can also be indicative of PMS. The most definitive way to determine pregnancy is through a home pregnancy test (HPT) or a blood test conducted by a healthcare provider. Since you mentioned that you had unprotected intercourse with withdrawal, it is essential to take a pregnancy test for a more accurate answer.

2. Yellow Discharge: The yellowish discharge you are noticing could be either urine or cervical mucus. If it is a light yellow and not accompanied by a strong odor or unusual texture, it may be normal cervical mucus, which can change in consistency and color throughout your menstrual cycle. If you are concerned about the discharge, especially if it has a foul smell or is accompanied by itching or irritation, it would be wise to consult a healthcare provider.

3. Lack of Discharge Before Menstruation: It is not uncommon for some women to experience little to no discharge leading up to their period. Hormonal fluctuations can affect the amount and consistency of cervical mucus. Some women may notice more discharge during ovulation and less as they approach their period. This can vary significantly from cycle to cycle and from person to person.

4. When to Take a Pregnancy Test: If your period does not arrive, it is generally recommended to wait at least one week after your missed period to take a home pregnancy test for the most accurate result. This allows enough time for the hormone hCG (human chorionic gonadotropin), which is produced during pregnancy, to build up in your urine. If you take the test too early, you may receive a false negative.

5. Anxiety and Delayed Period: Stress and anxiety can indeed affect your menstrual cycle. The body responds to stress by releasing hormones that can interfere with the normal hormonal balance required for ovulation and menstruation. If you are feeling particularly anxious about the possibility of being pregnant, it may contribute to your period being late. It is essential to find ways to manage stress, whether through relaxation techniques, exercise, or talking to someone about your concerns.

In summary, while your symptoms may suggest a possibility of pregnancy, the most reliable method to confirm this is through a pregnancy test. If your period does not arrive and the test is positive, or if you have any concerns about your symptoms, it is advisable to consult a healthcare provider for further evaluation and guidance. They can provide you with the necessary support and information tailored to your specific situation. Remember, it’s essential to take care of your mental health during this time, as anxiety can have a significant impact on your overall well-being.

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