Am I Still Pregnant? Pregnancy Tests and Irregular Cycles

Can I still get pregnant like this?!

Hello, Doctor! I had intimate relations with my boyfriend on October 31, and we used a condom throughout (I checked afterward by filling it with water, squeezing it, and poking it; it did not break or leak).
My phone records indicate that my ovulation period was from November 1 to 7, and my expected menstrual period was from November 20 to 26 (but my periods are usually irregular, so I am only using this as a reference).
I read online that pregnancy tests can be taken 7 to 14 days after sexual intercourse.
I took a test on November 7, and it showed one line.
However, on November 5, I noticed brown discharge, and on November 8, there was some blood when I wiped, but it has been intermittent until today, November 14, and it still feels like I need to flow but haven’t.
I have tested multiple times, and they all show one line.
Today (the 14th), I tested again, and it still shows one line.
On November 8, I visited a traditional Chinese medicine doctor who said it could be considered menstruation, but due to insufficient qi and blood, it hasn’t fully come down.
On November 10, I saw a gynecologist who said it doesn’t count as menstruation, and after an internal examination, they said everything seems fine; it might be related to hormonal influences.
They suggested that if my period doesn’t come next week, I should return for medication.
I would like to ask the doctor, given that I have tested so many times, is there still a chance of pregnancy? This doesn’t seem to count as menstruation, right?

Yu, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2021/11/14

Dr. Wu Xianghui reply Obstetrics and Gynecology

1.
For pregnancy concerns, please perform a home pregnancy test or visit a gynecologist for examination and evaluation four weeks after your most recent sexual intercourse.
2.
The menstrual cycle can be influenced by various psychological and physiological factors.
If your period is more than two months late, it is recommended to see a gynecologist for examination and evaluation.

Reply Date: 2021/11/14

More Info

Based on your description, it seems you are experiencing some confusion regarding your potential pregnancy status, especially given the irregularities in your menstrual cycle and the results of your pregnancy tests. Let's break down your situation and clarify some important points.

First, it's essential to understand how pregnancy tests work. Most home pregnancy tests detect the hormone human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG), which is produced shortly after a fertilized egg attaches to the uterine lining. Typically, hCG levels can be detected in urine about 14 days after conception, which aligns with your timeline of testing around November 7. However, if you tested too early, it might not have registered a positive result even if you were pregnant.

You mentioned that you had a sexual encounter on October 31, during your ovulation window, which increases the likelihood of conception. However, you also noted that you have a history of irregular menstrual cycles, which can complicate the timing of ovulation and menstruation. Irregular cycles can lead to uncertainty about when to expect your period and when to test for pregnancy.

The brown discharge you observed on November 5, followed by intermittent bleeding, could be a sign of several things. It might be implantation bleeding, which can occur when a fertilized egg attaches to the uterine lining. However, it could also be a sign of an early miscarriage or simply a variation of your menstrual cycle. Since you have been experiencing this bleeding for several days, it is crucial to monitor it closely.

Given that you have taken multiple pregnancy tests, all of which have returned negative results, it is less likely that you are pregnant. However, if your period does not arrive as expected, or if the bleeding continues or worsens, it would be advisable to consult with a healthcare provider for further evaluation. They may recommend a blood test to measure your hCG levels, which can provide a more definitive answer regarding your pregnancy status.

Additionally, the advice from your healthcare provider to consider hormonal influences is important. Hormonal imbalances can lead to irregular bleeding and may affect the timing of your menstrual cycle. If you are experiencing significant discomfort or if the bleeding is heavy, seeking medical attention is warranted.

In summary, while the negative pregnancy tests suggest that you are not pregnant, the irregular bleeding and your history of menstrual irregularities warrant further investigation. It is essential to keep track of your symptoms and consult with a healthcare professional if you have concerns about your menstrual cycle or potential pregnancy. They can provide personalized advice and may suggest further testing or treatment options based on your specific situation.

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