Pregnancy Tests and Menstrual Cycle Management

Regarding pregnancy testing?

My girlfriend's last menstrual period was on November 21, and she hasn't gotten her period yet.
On December 27, she took a home pregnancy test using a Man Shu Lei Dun pregnancy test stick.
Due to an urgent matter, she only checked the result after three minutes and saw one line, then left.
However, after returning an hour later, she noticed it had changed to two lines.
Therefore, on the morning of December 28, we went to a gynecology clinic where they also conducted a urine test, but the clinic said she was not pregnant and prescribed a medication to induce menstruation (Nordron) for three meals over three days.
That evening, we bought another pregnancy test stick and this time it showed a clear single line.
Q1.
Is she pregnant based on this information?
Q2.
Regarding the medication prescribed by the clinic (Nordron), I missed a dose on December 30 due to work, so on December 31, I took two pills for two meals at once.
Is this effective?
Q3.
If it is effective, how many days after taking the medication should we expect her period to come?
Q4.
She is experiencing lower abdominal pain, increased discharge, and nausea.
Are these side effects of the medication?

Niming, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2021/01/02

Dr. Cao Guotao reply Obstetrics and Gynecology

Hello, the chances of pregnancy should be low.
You can just take supplements.
Generally, your period will return within a week after finishing the medication.
Wishing you good health.

Reply Date: 2021/01/02

More Info

Understanding pregnancy tests and menstrual cycle management can be quite complex, especially when dealing with uncertainties and varying symptoms. Let’s break down your questions and concerns regarding your girlfriend's situation.

Q1: Is she pregnant?
Based on the timeline you provided, your girlfriend's last menstrual period was on November 21, and she took a home pregnancy test on December 27. The fact that the test showed one line initially and then two lines after a few minutes can be misleading. Home pregnancy tests are designed to detect the hormone hCG (human chorionic gonadotropin), which is produced during pregnancy. However, if the test is read after the recommended time frame, the results may not be reliable due to evaporation lines, which can appear as a second line.
The urine test conducted at the clinic on December 28 indicated no pregnancy, which is a strong indicator. If the test was performed correctly and within the appropriate time frame, it is likely that she is not pregnant. However, if her period does not arrive soon, it may be worth repeating the test a few days later or consulting with a healthcare provider for further evaluation.

Q2: Is taking two doses of the medication effective?
Nordron (norethisterone) is a medication often prescribed to induce menstruation. If your girlfriend missed a dose and took two doses at once, it is generally not recommended to double up on medication without consulting a healthcare provider. The effectiveness of the medication can be influenced by how it is taken. It is best to follow the prescribed regimen closely. If she has concerns about missed doses, she should reach out to her healthcare provider for guidance.

Q3: When can she expect her period to come?
If Nordron is effective, many women may experience their period within a few days after completing the course of medication. However, the timing can vary based on individual hormonal responses and the underlying reasons for the delayed period. If her period does not arrive within a week after finishing the medication, she should consult her healthcare provider for further evaluation.

Q4: Are the symptoms side effects of the medication?
The symptoms your girlfriend is experiencing—lower abdominal pain, increased discharge, and nausea—could potentially be side effects of the medication. Norethisterone can cause various side effects, including abdominal discomfort, changes in menstrual flow, and gastrointestinal symptoms. However, these symptoms could also be related to other factors, such as hormonal fluctuations or stress. If the symptoms persist or worsen, it is advisable for her to consult with a healthcare provider to rule out any other underlying conditions.

Additional Considerations
It’s important to remember that menstrual irregularities can occur for various reasons, including stress, hormonal imbalances, or changes in lifestyle. If your girlfriend continues to experience irregularities in her menstrual cycle or has concerns about her reproductive health, it may be beneficial for her to keep a detailed record of her menstrual cycle, symptoms, and any medications taken. This information can be helpful for healthcare providers in diagnosing and managing her condition.

In conclusion, while the initial home pregnancy test may have caused confusion, the subsequent clinic test suggests that your girlfriend is likely not pregnant. Following the prescribed medication regimen is crucial, and any persistent symptoms should be discussed with a healthcare provider for appropriate management.

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