Missed Period and Negative Pregnancy Test: What Could Be Happening?

Q: Missed Period and Negative Pregnancy Test: What Could Be Happening?

Dear Miss Liang： It is recommended that if your menstruation is delayed by more than a week, you should visit a gynecologist. <br>Generally, if it is just a hormonal issue and there is no pregnancy, menstruation can be induced to bring it on. <br>Hualien Hospital, Ministry of Hea

Menstruation has not occurred, and the pregnancy test is negative?

Menstruation started in early December.
I had unprotected intercourse with my boyfriend on December 10 and January 1.
My period is now 20 days late, and I have been experiencing persistent breast discomfort and swelling for several days.
On the 15th, I took a pregnancy test but did not wait for the results.
One day while showering, due to the pain, I massaged and applied pressure to my breasts and noticed that my nipples were discharging a clear fluid.
Because I was still concerned, I took another pregnancy test on the 20th, but it was still negative, although my symptoms continue.

Liangliang, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2020/01/22

Dr. Lin Manying reply Obstetrics and Gynecology

Dear Miss Liang: It is recommended that if your menstruation is delayed by more than a week, you should visit a gynecologist.
Generally, if it is just a hormonal issue and there is no pregnancy, menstruation can be induced to bring it on.
Hualien Hospital, Ministry of Health and Welfare, cares about your health.

Reply Date: 2020/01/22

More Info

When faced with a missed period and negative pregnancy tests, it can be understandably concerning and confusing. In your case, you mentioned that your last menstrual period was in early December, and you have had unprotected intercourse on two occasions. Now, you are experiencing symptoms such as breast tenderness, chest discomfort, and even nipple discharge, which can all be indicative of hormonal changes in your body.

Firstly, it is important to understand that a missed period can occur for various reasons beyond pregnancy. Stress, significant weight changes, hormonal imbalances, and underlying medical conditions such as polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) can all disrupt your menstrual cycle. In your case, the fact that you have had unprotected intercourse raises the possibility of pregnancy, but the negative pregnancy tests suggest that this may not be the case.

Pregnancy tests work by detecting the hormone human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) in your urine. This hormone is produced shortly after a fertilized egg attaches to the uterine lining. If you are testing too early, it is possible that your body has not yet produced enough hCG to be detected by the test. However, since you have tested multiple times and received negative results, it is less likely that you are pregnant, especially if you are experiencing symptoms that are not typical of early pregnancy.

The breast tenderness and nipple discharge you are experiencing could be related to hormonal fluctuations. Conditions such as hormonal imbalances, fibrocystic breast changes, or even benign breast conditions can cause similar symptoms. The clear discharge from the nipples, known as galactorrhea, can occur due to elevated levels of prolactin, a hormone responsible for milk production. This can be triggered by stress, certain medications, or other hormonal issues.

Given that you have missed your period for 20 days and are experiencing these symptoms, it would be advisable to consult with a healthcare provider. They can perform a more thorough evaluation, which may include blood tests to check hormone levels, a pelvic exam, or an ultrasound to assess your reproductive health. This will help rule out any underlying conditions that may be affecting your menstrual cycle and overall health.

In summary, while the possibility of pregnancy cannot be completely ruled out, the negative tests and your symptoms suggest that other factors may be at play. It is essential to seek medical advice to address your concerns and receive appropriate care. Remember, your health and peace of mind are paramount, and a healthcare professional can provide the guidance you need.

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