the Differences Between Pseudopregnancy and Actual Pregnancy

What is the difference between pseudopregnancy and pregnancy?

Hello Dr.
Tsao, I would like to ask you some questions regarding pseudopregnancy and pregnancy.
My boyfriend and I have sexual intercourse once a week, and we have always used condoms.
Here are my menstrual cycles from the beginning of this year until now: 1/23-1/29, 2/27-3/4, 3/27-4/2, 5/5-5/11, 6/3-6/9, and my last period was from 7/5-7/10.
My boyfriend and I had intercourse on 7/16 and 7/17, during which there was unprotected vaginal penetration for about 5 minutes, but we used a condom afterward and he ejaculated inside.
We also had intercourse on 7/25 under the same circumstances as on 7/16 and 7/17, and on the early morning of 7/26, we had protected sex.
The next day, I noticed some blood-tinged discharge when I went to the bathroom (but due to lighting, I couldn't determine if it was pink or red).
According to my app, my ovulation day was around 7/22-23, and I noticed stretchy, egg-white-like cervical mucus during those days.
I took a pregnancy test on 7/23 because I was very worried, but it was negative.
1.
My period is expected on 8/5, but it hasn't arrived yet.
I took pregnancy tests on 8/3 and 8/4, both of which were negative.
Is it accurate to test for pregnancy at this time?
2.
I have been experiencing dry heaving, bloating, loss of appetite, and occasional sharp pain in my lower left abdomen for about a week.
In the last couple of days, I also started to feel breast tenderness, and my nipples appear more prominent than usual.
Could this be due to my anxiety causing pseudopregnancy?
3.
The discharge I have noticed is different from my usual pre-menstrual discharge; it is more transparent and stretchy.
Can the characteristics of the discharge help determine if I am pregnant?
4.
When would be the best time for me to take another pregnancy test for more accurate results?
Thank you, Dr.
Tsao, for taking the time to answer my questions!

Wu Xiaojie, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2020/08/06

Dr. Cao Guotao reply Obstetrics and Gynecology

Hello, a negative pregnancy test indicates that the chance of pregnancy is low, and false pregnancy is unlikely.
It is advisable to wait another week; if menstruation still does not occur, I recommend seeing a gynecologist.
Wishing you good health.

Reply Date: 2020/08/06

More Info

Understanding the differences between pseudopregnancy (also known as false pregnancy) and actual pregnancy can be quite complex, especially when considering the psychological and physiological factors involved. Let's break down your concerns based on the information you've provided.

1. Timing of Pregnancy Tests: You mentioned that your expected period was on August 5, and you tested for pregnancy on August 3 and 4, both of which returned negative results. It's important to note that home pregnancy tests are most accurate when taken after a missed period. Testing too early can lead to false negatives, as the hormone hCG (human chorionic gonadotropin), which is produced during pregnancy, may not be at detectable levels yet. Since you had unprotected intercourse around your ovulation period (July 22-23), it is possible that you could be pregnant, but testing too early could yield inaccurate results.

2. Symptoms of Pregnancy vs. Pseudopregnancy: The symptoms you are experiencing—nausea, bloating, loss of appetite, and breast tenderness—are common in early pregnancy. However, they can also be influenced by anxiety or stress, which can lead to pseudopregnancy. Pseudopregnancy can occur when a person believes they are pregnant and exhibits symptoms due to psychological factors rather than physiological changes. It’s crucial to differentiate between these two states, as the mind can significantly influence bodily sensations and symptoms.

3. Cervical Mucus Changes: You noted that your cervical mucus has changed to a more transparent, stretchy consistency, which is typical around ovulation. However, after conception, some women may also notice changes in their cervical mucus, which can become thicker or creamier. While changes in cervical mucus can provide clues about your menstrual cycle and ovulation, they are not definitive indicators of pregnancy.
4. When to Retest for Pregnancy: Given that your period is late, it would be advisable to wait a few days after your expected period to retest. If you still have not gotten your period by then, consider using a more sensitive pregnancy test or consulting with a healthcare provider for a blood test, which can detect lower levels of hCG than home tests.

In summary, while your symptoms may suggest pregnancy, they could also be influenced by psychological factors or hormonal fluctuations. The best course of action is to wait until after your missed period to retest for pregnancy. If you continue to experience symptoms or have concerns about your health, it is advisable to consult with a healthcare professional who can provide personalized advice and possibly perform a blood test for more accurate results.
Understanding the nuances between actual pregnancy and pseudopregnancy is essential, as both can lead to significant emotional and physical experiences. If you find that your anxiety about the situation is overwhelming, consider speaking with a mental health professional who can help you navigate these feelings.

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