Pregnancy Testing and Symptoms: Your Questions Answered

Q: Pregnancy Testing and Symptoms: Your Questions Answered

Hello Ms. <br>Li： Your situation does not appear to indicate pregnancy, so there is no need to be overly anxious. <br>Mild lower abdominal discomfort or gastrointestinal discomfort during menstruation is quite common in clinical practice. <br>However, your ongoing concern about b

Pregnancy test questions?

Hello doctor, my last menstrual period started on August 23rd, and this month it was delayed by five days, arriving on September 28th.
However, on the night of September 27th, I experienced severe abdominal bloating that kept me awake.
I've never had this happen before.
I had sexual intercourse on September 15th with protection, and there was no slippage (though I later found out it was the day after ovulation).
On September 23rd, I had unprotected intercourse, but shortly after, I used a wet wipe.
After receiving the vaccine on September 29th, my menstrual flow suddenly decreased, and I'm worried that it might not be a period but rather implantation bleeding.

On October 3rd, I visited an ENT specialist, who said that my abdominal pain was not significantly related to the vaccine and seemed more like gastroesophageal reflux.
However, on the morning of October 4th, I took a pregnancy test and it was negative (I had been feeling uncomfortable in my abdomen for a few days and had taken gastrointestinal medication, but I'm unsure if that affected the test).
I plan to take another test in a few days.

I've researched a lot online and am concerned about early pregnancy symptoms, as early pregnancy can also cause bloating, gastroesophageal reflux, and abdominal discomfort.
Since this situation has never happened to me before, I'm unsure how many days I should wait to take a more accurate pregnancy test.
I also have an appointment with a gastroenterologist soon, but I'm not sure if they will allow me to take a pregnancy test (since I can't let my parents know).
Currently, I have bloating, a sensation of something stuck in my throat, and my upper abdomen feels hard and somewhat painful.
My body temperature is slightly elevated, around 36.9 to 37.1 degrees Celsius, but I'm unsure if this is related to the vaccine (it has been five days since I received it).
Sometimes I feel the urge to burp but can't, and my bowel movements during my period are normal.

I would like to ask if I should wait a few more days to take another pregnancy test?

Niming, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2021/10/04

Dr. Huang Yiwen reply Obstetrics and Gynecology

Hello Ms.
Li: Your situation does not appear to indicate pregnancy, so there is no need to be overly anxious.
Mild lower abdominal discomfort or gastrointestinal discomfort during menstruation is quite common in clinical practice.
However, your ongoing concern about being pregnant may amplify these symptoms, causing you to feel more anxious.
Additionally, your menstrual cycle is approximately the same time since your last period on August 23.
It is unlikely that you are pregnant.
If you are still worried, you can wait a week and take another test.

Reply Date: 2021/10/04

More Info

It sounds like you have a lot of concerns regarding your current situation, and it's completely understandable to feel anxious during this time. Let's break down your questions and concerns regarding pregnancy testing, symptoms, and the potential impact of recent events on your health.

First, regarding your menstrual cycle, you mentioned that your period was late by five days and that you experienced significant abdominal bloating. It's important to note that menstrual irregularities can occur for various reasons, including stress, hormonal changes, and even recent vaccinations. The fact that you had unprotected intercourse around your ovulation period raises the possibility of pregnancy, but it is not definitive.

You also mentioned that you took a pregnancy test on October 4th, which returned negative. Generally, home pregnancy tests are quite accurate when taken after a missed period, but they can sometimes yield false negatives, especially if taken too early. Given that your period was late, it would be advisable to wait a few days and take another test to confirm the results. If your period does not arrive within a week or if you continue to experience symptoms that concern you, it would be wise to consult a healthcare provider.

As for the symptoms you are experiencing—abdominal bloating, discomfort, and a slight fever—these can be attributed to various factors. Bloating and gastrointestinal discomfort can often be linked to dietary choices, stress, or even the side effects of a recent vaccination. The slight fever you mentioned (around 36.9 to 37.1 degrees Celsius) is generally not considered high, but if it persists or increases, it would be worth discussing with a healthcare professional.

You also expressed concern about whether your gastrointestinal issues could affect a potential pregnancy. If you are indeed pregnant, gastrointestinal symptoms like bloating and heartburn are common in early pregnancy due to hormonal changes that affect digestion. However, if you are not pregnant, these symptoms could simply be related to your diet or stress levels.

In terms of seeking medical advice, if you feel that your symptoms are severe or worsening, it would be prudent to see a healthcare provider. They can perform a more thorough evaluation, including a pregnancy test if necessary, and provide guidance on managing your symptoms. If you are concerned about privacy regarding your potential pregnancy, you can express this to your healthcare provider, who is obligated to keep your information confidential.

Lastly, regarding your question about whether to wait a few days to retest for pregnancy, I would recommend waiting at least a week after your missed period for the most accurate results. If you decide to see a gastroenterologist, you can mention your symptoms without necessarily disclosing your concerns about pregnancy until you are ready.

In summary, it is essential to listen to your body and seek medical advice if you have concerns. Taking another pregnancy test in a few days will help clarify your situation, and addressing your gastrointestinal symptoms with a healthcare provider can provide you with relief and peace of mind. Remember, early pregnancy symptoms can vary widely, and it is always best to consult with a healthcare professional for personalized advice.

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