Signs of Possible Pregnancy: Symptoms and Concerns

Are you pregnant?

From September 7 to December, I had my period.
I had intercourse with my boyfriend on the 19th and 20th, with an expected ovulation period from the 21st to the 27th.
We also had intercourse on the 27th and 29th, and again on October 4th and 9th.
On the afternoon of the 28th, I started noticing brown discharge, which lasted for 3 to 4 days, just a little bit—about a third of a panty liner and a bit more.
Could this be implantation bleeding? We used condoms for all intercourse except for manual stimulation, and there were no incidents of breakage.
However, my period is now 6 days late.
Recently, I've been going to bed after 2 AM, and with school activities and stress, could this be a sign of pregnancy, or is it just a late period? What are the chances of being pregnant? Would drinking angelica root soup help bring my period on faster? Would heating my abdomen and drinking hot water with brown sugar help? How much does RU486 cost at a clinic? Will there be a record of this? Can other doctors see this when I go for a consultation?

Wen, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2019/10/18

Dr. Huang Jianzhong reply Obstetrics and Gynecology

Menstruation started on September 7 and lasted until the end of the month.
I had intercourse with my boyfriend on the 19th and 20th, with an expected ovulation period from the 21st to the 27th.
We also had intercourse on the 27th and 29th, and on October 4th and 9th.
Starting in the afternoon of the 28th, I noticed brown discharge that lasted for 3 to 4 days, which was just a little bit, about a third of a panty liner.
Could this be implantation bleeding?
Answer: Not necessarily.
We used condoms for all intercourse except for manual stimulation, and there were no accidents.
However, today my period is already 6 days late.
Recently, I've been going to bed around 2 AM, and with school activities and stress, could this be a sign of pregnancy, or is it just a late period?
Answer: It is likely just a late period.
Is there a significant chance of pregnancy?
Answer: The chance of pregnancy is low.
Would drinking angelica soup help bring on my period faster?
Answer: Not necessarily.
Would heating my abdomen and drinking hot water with brown sugar help?
Answer: Not necessarily.
How much does RU486 cost at a clinic?
Answer: It varies.
Will there be a record of this? Can other doctors see it during consultations?
Answer: Yes, there will be a record, and other doctors will be able to see it during consultations.

Reply Date: 2019/10/18

More Info

When considering the signs of possible pregnancy, it’s important to understand the various symptoms and concerns that can arise during this time. Based on your description, you have experienced some unusual symptoms, including brown discharge and a missed period, which can indeed raise questions about pregnancy.

Firstly, the brown discharge you mentioned could potentially be implantation bleeding, which occurs when a fertilized egg attaches to the lining of the uterus. This type of bleeding is typically light and can last for a few days. However, it can also be a sign of other conditions, such as hormonal changes or even the onset of your menstrual cycle. Given that your period is late by six days, it is advisable to take a home pregnancy test for a more definitive answer.

Regarding your concerns about stress and its impact on your menstrual cycle, it is well-documented that stress can lead to hormonal imbalances, which may delay your period. Factors such as lack of sleep, academic pressures, and lifestyle changes can all contribute to this. Therefore, while the possibility of pregnancy exists, it is also plausible that your period is simply delayed due to stress or other non-pregnancy-related factors.

As for your question about herbal remedies like Dong Quai (當歸) and hot drinks, it’s essential to approach these with caution. While some believe that certain herbal teas can help regulate menstrual cycles, there is no scientific evidence to support that they can induce menstruation if you are pregnant. Additionally, consuming hot drinks or foods is unlikely to affect your menstrual cycle significantly.

If you are considering taking RU486 (mifepristone), it is crucial to understand that this medication is used for medical abortion and should only be taken under the supervision of a healthcare provider. The cost can vary depending on the clinic, and yes, there will be medical records associated with this treatment. Other healthcare providers may have access to your medical history, including any prescriptions or treatments you have received.

In conclusion, if you suspect you might be pregnant, the best course of action is to take a home pregnancy test or consult with a healthcare professional for a blood test. This will provide you with a clearer understanding of your situation. If you are experiencing significant stress or anxiety about your symptoms, discussing these feelings with a trusted friend or counselor can also be beneficial. Remember, your health and well-being are paramount, and seeking professional advice is always a wise choice when navigating potential pregnancy concerns.

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