Pregnancy Concerns: Common Symptoms and Misconceptions - Obstetrics and Gynecology

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Is it pregnancy?


Your girlfriend had her period from October 2 to October 8, and her cycle is 35 days long.
You are asking if there is a possibility of pregnancy after you engaged in foreplay on October 12, during which your hand may have come into contact with fluid from your previous masturbation (without ejaculation), and then you performed digital stimulation (not deep, as your girlfriend is a virgin).

Answer: This scenario is unlikely to result in pregnancy.
As of now, your girlfriend has not experienced any unusual symptoms.
However, her next period is due on November 5, and she reported a brief sharp pain in her abdomen on November 2.
Is this normal?
Answer: This is generally considered normal.
Her discharge has remained consistent, with only increased amounts during ovulation (she also experiences sharp pain during ovulation).
Is there a possibility of pregnancy, or are we just overthinking this?
Answer: You are likely overthinking it.

Regarding your girlfriend's recent symptoms, she has been feeling bloated and nauseous (she visited a doctor yesterday who diagnosed her with viral gastroenteritis).
This week, her breasts have become firmer, and she has experienced menstrual-like cramps, but her period has not yet arrived.
Originally, her period was expected on November 5, but it has not come.
Could the delay in her period be due to stress from our previous worries? Are these symptoms normal?
Response from the physician: Dr.
Huang Jianzhong, Obstetrics and Gynecology, suggests that her bloating and nausea are due to viral gastroenteritis.
The breast firmness and cramping are also noted, and the delay in her period is likely related to stress.
Are these symptoms normal?
Answer: Overall, they are considered normal.

On November 7, your girlfriend was awakened by pain around 4 AM, and her period started.
The first two days were bright red, and on the second day, she participated in a school sports event.
After running, her flow decreased the following day.
From days four to six, her period was brown (which is typical for the end of a period), and today her flow has almost stopped.
After showering today, she noticed her underwear was slightly damp.
Are these symptoms normal?
This time, her period was two days late, as you mentioned, due to stress.
Response from the physician: Dr.
Huang Jianzhong, Obstetrics and Gynecology, confirms that her period starting on November 7, with the described flow characteristics, is normal.

Is the two-day delay indeed due to stress?
Answer: Yes.

After her period ended, your girlfriend sometimes feels damp down there.
On November 17, she noticed a white, sticky discharge on her underwear (which is different from ovulation discharge), and her weight has not changed.
What could this symptom indicate? Is it normal, or are we overthinking again?

B, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2019/11/17

Dr. Huang Jianzhong reply Obstetrics and Gynecology


After my girlfriend's menstrual period ends, she sometimes experiences a wet sensation down there.
On November 17th, she noticed a white, sticky discharge on her underwear (which is different from the color of ovulation discharge).
Additionally, her weight has not changed.
Doctor, what could this symptom be? Is it normal, or are we overthinking it? Answer: It is normal.

Reply Date: 2019/11/17

More Info


Understanding pregnancy concerns, particularly regarding common symptoms and misconceptions, is crucial for both partners during this significant life event. The scenario you've described involves a series of questions and observations about your girlfriend's menstrual cycle, potential pregnancy, and related symptoms. Let's break down the concerns and provide clarity based on medical knowledge.


Menstrual Cycle and Pregnancy
Your girlfriend's menstrual cycle, which you mentioned is typically 35 days, plays a significant role in understanding her fertility window. Ovulation typically occurs about 14 days before the start of her next period. Given that her last period was from October 2 to October 8, she would likely ovulate around October 22. Engaging in intimate activities on October 12, while not directly during her fertile window, does raise questions about the potential for pregnancy, especially if there was any transfer of sperm.

However, since you indicated that there was no ejaculation, the likelihood of pregnancy from pre-ejaculate fluid is low but not impossible. Sperm can survive in the female reproductive tract for several days, so if ovulation occurred shortly after your encounter, there could be a risk, albeit minimal.


Symptoms and Concerns
You mentioned that your girlfriend experienced abdominal pain, which she described as a brief stabbing sensation, and that her menstrual cycle was delayed. It's important to note that mild abdominal discomfort can be common and may not necessarily indicate pregnancy. Stress and anxiety can also significantly impact menstrual cycles, leading to delays or changes in flow. The fact that her symptoms included breast tenderness and changes in discharge could be related to hormonal fluctuations rather than pregnancy.

The mention of her experiencing nausea and a feeling of bloating, along with a diagnosis of viral gastroenteritis, suggests that her symptoms may be more related to a temporary illness rather than pregnancy. Gastrointestinal issues can often mimic early pregnancy symptoms, such as nausea and abdominal discomfort.


Delayed Menstruation
When her period arrived on November 7, two days late, it could indeed be attributed to stress, as you suggested. Stress can lead to hormonal imbalances that affect the menstrual cycle. The color and consistency of menstrual flow can vary from cycle to cycle, and it is not uncommon for the flow to start off heavy and then taper off, sometimes changing color towards the end. The presence of brown blood is typically old blood, which is common as the period concludes.


Post-Menstrual Symptoms
Regarding the white, sticky discharge you observed after her period, this can be a normal occurrence as the body prepares for the next cycle. Discharge can vary in consistency and color throughout the menstrual cycle, influenced by hormonal changes. As long as there are no accompanying symptoms such as itching, burning, or an unusual odor, this is generally considered normal.


Conclusion
In summary, based on the information provided, it appears that your girlfriend's symptoms and menstrual irregularities are likely related to stress and possibly a viral illness rather than pregnancy. It's essential to maintain open communication with her about any concerns and to consult a healthcare provider if symptoms persist or worsen. Regular check-ups and discussions with a doctor can help alleviate anxiety and provide reassurance during this time. Understanding the body's responses during the menstrual cycle and the potential effects of stress can empower both partners to navigate these concerns more effectively.

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