Missed Period: Symptoms and Pregnancy Concerns

Missed menstruation?

Hello doctor, my last menstrual period was from February 7 to February 13, and about a week later, I experienced a small amount of pinkish bleeding that lasted for approximately five days.
I had sexual intercourse with my boyfriend on March 7, using a condom throughout and with no ejaculation inside.
My period was expected on March 13, but it has not arrived, and since March 8, I have been experiencing symptoms of lower abdominal pain, bloating, and backache.
I took a pregnancy test on March 14, which showed negative results.
I would like to know what could be the cause of these symptoms and whether there is a possibility of pregnancy.

Lin, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2022/03/16

Dr. Cao Guotao reply Obstetrics and Gynecology

Hello, it is possible that your menstrual period is approaching.
If it does not arrive within a week, it is advisable to see a gynecologist.
Wishing you good health.

Reply Date: 2022/03/16

More Info

When it comes to missed periods and the associated symptoms, it’s important to consider a variety of factors that could contribute to your situation. Based on the timeline you provided, it appears that you experienced a normal menstrual cycle from February 7 to February 13, followed by some unusual spotting a week later, and then a missed period in March. You also mentioned having unprotected sexual intercourse on March 7, which raises the question of potential pregnancy.

Firstly, the spotting you experienced after your last period could be attributed to several factors. It might be implantation bleeding, which can occur when a fertilized egg attaches to the lining of the uterus. However, given that you had a condom during intercourse and no ejaculation occurred inside, the likelihood of pregnancy is significantly reduced. Other possible causes for the spotting could include hormonal fluctuations, stress, or even the onset of a new menstrual cycle.

The symptoms you are experiencing, such as lower abdominal pain and backache, can be common in various situations, including premenstrual syndrome (PMS), ovulation, or even stress-related tension. It’s also worth noting that some women experience these symptoms due to anxiety or other emotional factors, especially if they are concerned about potential pregnancy.

Regarding the pregnancy test you took on March 14, it’s important to remember that home pregnancy tests are generally reliable but can sometimes yield false negatives, especially if taken too early. If your period does not arrive within a week or so, it would be advisable to take another test or consult with a healthcare provider for a blood test, which can detect pregnancy earlier and more accurately than a urine test.

In terms of your missed period, it’s essential to consider that menstrual cycles can be affected by various factors, including stress, changes in weight, exercise habits, and hormonal imbalances. If you are experiencing significant stress or anxiety, this could also contribute to changes in your menstrual cycle.

If you continue to experience symptoms or if your period does not arrive, it would be wise to seek medical advice. A healthcare provider can perform a thorough evaluation, including a pelvic exam and possibly an ultrasound, to rule out any underlying conditions such as ovarian cysts or other gynecological issues.

In summary, while there is a possibility of pregnancy, the use of condoms significantly reduces that risk. The symptoms you are experiencing could be related to hormonal changes, stress, or other benign factors. Monitoring your symptoms and consulting with a healthcare professional if your period does not arrive or if symptoms persist is the best course of action. Remember, it’s always better to seek medical advice when in doubt, as healthcare providers can offer personalized guidance based on your specific situation.

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