Menstrual Cycle Delays and Pregnancy Concerns - Obstetrics and Gynecology

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Menstrual cycle


Hello Doctor, I would like to ask about my situation.
On April 1st, I had sexual intercourse using a condom.
On April 2nd, I had intercourse again, but the condom broke during ejaculation, so I took the emergency contraceptive pill, Ella.
On April 5th, I had another sexual encounter where the condom also broke, but I pulled out immediately and did not ejaculate.
According to my normal menstrual cycle, my period should have arrived on the 19th of this month.
On April 15th, April 20th, and May 1st, I forgot to urinate in the morning, and after not going for four hours in the afternoon, I tested and got one line.
On May 2nd, I woke up and used my first morning urine to test for pregnancy, and it also showed one line.
I have tried three different pregnancy tests: the Man Shu Lei Dun test, the Formosa Plastics test, and another type of pregnancy test plate, all of which showed one line.
Currently, my period is already two weeks late.
Last week, from April 26th to April 28th, I took medication to induce menstruation, but I still have not gotten my period.
I would like to ask the doctor if there is still a possibility of pregnancy, as it has been almost a month and I should be able to get a positive result by now, right? Why hasn't my period come yet? Could it be due to stress causing amenorrhea, or is there another reason? I would appreciate a detailed response.
Thank you, Doctor.

Ting, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2021/05/02

Dr. Cao Guotao reply Obstetrics and Gynecology


Hello, the chances of pregnancy should be low.
Please wait for another week, and if your period still hasn't arrived, I recommend seeing a gynecologist.
Wishing you good health.

Reply Date: 2021/05/02

More Info


When it comes to understanding menstrual cycle delays and pregnancy concerns, there are several factors to consider, especially in the context of recent sexual activity, contraceptive use, and hormonal medications. Based on your description, you have had multiple instances of unprotected intercourse, including situations where condoms failed, and you have taken emergency contraception (Plan B) shortly after these incidents.
Firstly, it's important to understand how emergency contraceptive pills (ECPs) work. ECPs, such as the one you mentioned (艾伊利), are designed to prevent pregnancy primarily by delaying ovulation. They are most effective when taken as soon as possible after unprotected intercourse, ideally within 72 hours, but can be taken up to 5 days after. However, they do not terminate an existing pregnancy. If ovulation has already occurred, the effectiveness of ECPs diminishes significantly.

Given that you have taken ECPs and have also engaged in sexual activity after the use of these pills, it is possible that your menstrual cycle has been disrupted. ECPs can cause changes in your menstrual cycle, leading to delays or irregularities. Stress and anxiety about the possibility of pregnancy can also contribute to menstrual irregularities, sometimes referred to as "stress-induced amenorrhea."
You mentioned that your period is now two weeks late, and you have conducted multiple pregnancy tests, all of which returned negative results. This is a strong indicator that you are likely not pregnant, especially considering that pregnancy tests are generally reliable when taken correctly and at the appropriate time. Most home pregnancy tests can detect pregnancy about a week after a missed period, and since you have tested multiple times with negative results, the likelihood of pregnancy is low.

However, if your period does not arrive soon, it may be beneficial to consult with a healthcare provider. They can perform a blood test for pregnancy, which is more sensitive than home tests, and can also evaluate other potential causes for your missed period, such as hormonal imbalances or other health issues.
In summary, while the risk of pregnancy exists given the circumstances, the negative pregnancy tests and the timing of your actions suggest that pregnancy is unlikely. The delay in your menstrual cycle could be attributed to the use of emergency contraception, stress, or other factors. If your period does not resume or if you have further concerns, seeking medical advice would be a prudent next step.

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