Menstrual issues/Pregnancy testing
Hello Doctor, my girlfriend's menstrual cycle has been around 32 to 35 days for the past year.
The last two periods started on March 18 and April 25, but she hasn't had her period since April 25.
We had sexual intercourse on May 3 and May 15 without using a condom for the entire duration (we put it on halfway through).
Due to the significant delay, after reading some posts online, she went to the gynecologist on June 8 for an examination.
After an abdominal ultrasound and a urine test, the doctor indicated that she was not pregnant, and she was prescribed medication to induce her period for three days.
However, her period still hasn't arrived.
Is it possible that she could be pregnant but the tests did not detect it? Additionally, on June 13, thinking her period was about to come, we had sexual intercourse again (also without using a condom for the entire duration).
Will this affect the effectiveness of the medication to induce her period? What are the chances of pregnancy? If she wants to take a pregnancy test again, when would be the best time to do so for accurate results?
Niming, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2020/06/17
Dr. Cao Guotao reply Obstetrics and Gynecology
Hello, the chances of pregnancy should be low.
If it has been over a week since taking the medication to induce menstruation and you still haven't gotten your period, it is advisable to see a gynecologist.
Wishing you good health.
Reply Date: 2020/06/17
More Info
When it comes to understanding menstrual delays and the potential for pregnancy, there are several factors to consider. Based on the information provided, your girlfriend has a history of regular menstrual cycles, typically ranging from 32 to 35 days. The last two menstrual periods were on March 18 and April 25, and as of now, her period has not returned. You mentioned having unprotected intercourse on May 3 and May 15, which raises concerns about the possibility of pregnancy.
Firstly, it is important to note that menstrual delays can occur for various reasons, including stress, hormonal imbalances, changes in weight, and other health-related issues. In your case, the delay could be attributed to a combination of factors, including the stress of exams or other life changes.
You mentioned that you visited a gynecologist on June 8, where an abdominal ultrasound and urine pregnancy test were performed, both of which indicated that she was not pregnant. This is a significant finding, as urine pregnancy tests are generally very sensitive and can detect pregnancy as early as a week after conception, depending on the sensitivity of the test used. If the test was negative and the ultrasound did not show any signs of pregnancy, it is less likely that she is pregnant, especially considering the timing of the tests.
Regarding the use of medication to induce menstruation, you were prescribed a three-day course of medication. It is essential to follow the doctor's instructions regarding the use of this medication. If she had unprotected intercourse on June 13 after starting the medication, it is possible that this could affect the timing of her next period, but it does not necessarily negate the effects of the medication. The medication is designed to help regulate the menstrual cycle and may still be effective even if intercourse occurred afterward.
If her period does not arrive after completing the medication, it is advisable to consult with the gynecologist again. They may recommend further testing or evaluation to determine the underlying cause of the menstrual delay.
As for the possibility of being pregnant despite negative tests, while it is rare, it is not impossible. Factors such as very early pregnancy or a chemical pregnancy (where a fertilized egg implants but does not develop) can sometimes lead to negative test results. If there is still concern about pregnancy, it is recommended to wait at least a week after the last test to retest, as this allows for more accurate results.
In summary, while the likelihood of pregnancy seems low given the negative tests and ultrasound results, it is essential to monitor her symptoms and menstrual cycle closely. If her period does not return soon, or if she experiences any unusual symptoms, further medical evaluation is warranted. Always consult with a healthcare professional for personalized advice and treatment options.
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