Pregnancy Concerns: When to Seek Gynecological Advice?

Pregnancy test questions?

Your girlfriend's last menstrual period was on November 3.
Our sexual activities were limited to genital rubbing through underwear, and we had intercourse on November 23, November 28, December 5, and December 6.
Her menstrual cycle is not regular; for instance, she had a 59-day cycle in July-August, but generally, it is around 31 days.
To be cautious, we used a pregnancy test on the evening of December 4 and the morning of December 8, both of which were negative (brand: Taisuo Biotechnology, Blanka).
As of today (December 9), she has not yet had her period, but she experienced lower abdominal pain last week.

My questions are:
1.
Should we go for a gynecological examination to check for pregnancy?
2.
If it is premenstrual syndrome, is it normal to have lower abdominal pain for such an extended period?

Niming, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2020/12/09

Dr. Chen Zhiyu reply Obstetrics and Gynecology

Regarding your concerns, based on your description, it is indeed advisable to consult an obstetrician-gynecologist to confirm the possibility of pregnancy.
The accompanying lower abdominal pain may not necessarily be a premenstrual symptom.
It is recommended that you seek further evaluation from a specialist.
Thank you for your inquiry, and I wish you health and happiness.

Reply Date: 2020/12/09

More Info

When it comes to pregnancy concerns, particularly regarding missed periods and abdominal pain, it is essential to approach the situation with caution and awareness of the potential underlying issues. Based on the details provided, your girlfriend's last menstrual period was on November 3, and she has engaged in sexual activities that could potentially lead to pregnancy. Despite negative pregnancy tests on December 4 and December 8, the absence of her period by December 9, coupled with abdominal pain, raises several important points to consider.

1. Should you seek gynecological advice to confirm pregnancy?
Yes, it is advisable to seek gynecological advice. While the home pregnancy tests you used returned negative results, these tests can sometimes yield false negatives, especially if taken too early or if the urine is diluted. Given that your girlfriend's menstrual cycle is typically around 31 days, and she is now several days late, a visit to a healthcare provider for a more sensitive blood test or a pelvic examination would be prudent. A healthcare professional can provide a more accurate assessment and rule out any other potential issues.

2. Is prolonged abdominal pain normal if it is premenstrual syndrome (PMS)?
Abdominal pain can be a common symptom of PMS, but if the pain is persistent and severe, it may warrant further investigation. PMS typically includes symptoms such as bloating, mood swings, and mild cramping, but it should not cause prolonged or intense pain. If the abdominal pain is significant, it could indicate other conditions such as ovarian cysts, ectopic pregnancy, or even early signs of miscarriage if pregnancy is confirmed. Therefore, it is crucial to monitor the pain and seek medical advice if it persists or worsens.

In summary, given the circumstances—missed period, negative pregnancy tests, and ongoing abdominal pain—it is highly recommended to consult a gynecologist. They can conduct a thorough evaluation, including a physical examination and possibly an ultrasound, to determine if pregnancy has occurred or if there are other underlying health issues. Early intervention can help address any concerns and ensure the well-being of both your girlfriend and any potential pregnancy.
Additionally, it is important to maintain open communication with your partner about her symptoms and feelings during this time. Emotional support can be just as crucial as medical care when navigating concerns related to pregnancy and reproductive health.

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