Pregnancy Symptoms and Testing: Your Questions Answered - Obstetrics and Gynecology

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Hello! Thank you for your questions regarding your symptoms and concerns about pregnancy. Let's break down your inquiries one by one.

1. Symptoms of Discomfort: The symptoms you are experiencing, such as left lower abdominal pain, bloating, and breast tenderness, can indeed be associated with both premenstrual syndrome (PMS) and early pregnancy. PMS typically occurs in the luteal phase of your menstrual cycle, which is after ovulation and before your period starts. Symptoms like breast tenderness and abdominal discomfort are common during this time. However, they can also be early signs of pregnancy. The key difference is that pregnancy symptoms may persist or intensify, while PMS symptoms usually resolve once menstruation begins.

2. Pregnancy Tests: You mentioned that you took pregnancy tests on days 14, 17, and 20 after intercourse, and all were negative. Generally, if you test too early, especially before your expected period, you might get a false negative result. Most home pregnancy tests are quite accurate when taken after a missed period. Given your cycle length of 30-32 days, if you have not yet missed your period, it might still be too early to confirm pregnancy. However, if you continue to experience symptoms and your period does not arrive, it would be advisable to test again a few days after your expected period.

3. Basal Body Temperature (BBT): You noted that your basal body temperature has remained elevated between 36.5-36.7°C and has not dropped as you expected it would before your period. An elevated BBT can be an indicator of pregnancy, as progesterone levels remain high during early pregnancy. If your temperature remains elevated for more than 18 days after ovulation, it is often a strong sign of pregnancy. However, individual variations can occur, and not all women will experience the same patterns.

In summary, while your symptoms could indicate either PMS or early pregnancy, the negative pregnancy tests suggest that you may not be pregnant, especially if they were taken at appropriate times. However, if your period does not arrive soon, consider retesting or consulting with a healthcare provider for a blood test, which can detect pregnancy earlier and more reliably than home tests.

Additionally, if you continue to experience significant discomfort, it would be wise to consult a healthcare professional. They can provide a thorough evaluation and help determine the cause of your symptoms, whether they are related to PMS, pregnancy, or another condition.

In the meantime, ensure you are taking care of your health by maintaining a balanced diet, staying hydrated, and managing stress. If you have any further questions or concerns, don’t hesitate to reach out for more personalized advice. Wishing you the best of health!