Missed Period and Negative Pregnancy Test: What You Need to Know - Obstetrics and Gynecology

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Delayed menstruation with a negative pregnancy test (one line)?


On September 1st and 2nd, my boyfriend caressed me, but he did not remove his pants (although later I touched his private area, which felt slightly wet, while he was still wearing pants).
He then adjusted that area and touched other places, even rubbing against his pants.
After that, he continued to caress me, but he did not ejaculate, and I did not touch my own private area.
My period was originally due on September 10th, but it is now September 12th, and it has not arrived.
This morning, I took a pregnancy test using my first morning urine, and it showed one line.
After a long time, it still shows one line.
I am unsure if this is due to being overly nervous and anxious, as I feel slightly nauseous.
The premenstrual symptoms I had recently were severe, but they are almost gone now.
However, I have a painful bump the size of a pimple under my armpit.
Currently, I have some discomfort in my lower abdomen, and my discharge is thick and slightly yellowish-white.
Could this be a sign that my period is coming? I took medication to induce my period last cycle; could that affect this cycle? Please help me, doctor.
Thank you.
Am I at risk of pregnancy?

Xiao Xin, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2022/09/12

Dr. Cao Guotao reply Obstetrics and Gynecology


Hello, you should not be pregnant.
Just wait and see.
There are small bumps under the skin; if they are painful and have not resolved, it is advisable to see a doctor.
Wishing you good health.

Reply Date: 2022/09/12

More Info


When it comes to missed periods and negative pregnancy tests, it's essential to understand the various factors that can contribute to these situations. Based on your description, it seems you are experiencing anxiety about a potential pregnancy due to a missed period and a negative pregnancy test. Let's break down the situation and explore the possibilities.

Firstly, it's important to note that the timing of ovulation and the menstrual cycle can vary significantly from person to person. A typical menstrual cycle lasts about 28 days, but cycles can range from 21 to 35 days. If your period was expected on September 10 and you are now two days late, it could be due to several reasons, including stress, hormonal imbalances, or even the recent use of medication to induce menstruation.

The fact that you engaged in sexual activity, albeit without penetration and with no ejaculation, does reduce the likelihood of pregnancy. However, it is still possible for pre-ejaculate fluid to contain sperm, although the chances are relatively low. If you are feeling anxious, this stress can also affect your menstrual cycle, potentially leading to a delayed period.

Regarding your negative pregnancy test, it's crucial to consider the timing of the test. Home pregnancy tests are most accurate when taken after a missed period, but testing too early can lead to false negatives. If you tested on September 12, it might still be too early for the hormone hCG (human chorionic gonadotropin) to be detected in your urine, especially if you ovulated later than expected.

The symptoms you mentioned, such as nausea and breast tenderness, can also be attributed to premenstrual syndrome (PMS) rather than pregnancy. The presence of a painful bump in your armpit could be unrelated to your menstrual cycle and might require further evaluation by a healthcare professional.

If your period does not arrive within a week or so, it would be advisable to retest with a home pregnancy test or consult a healthcare provider for a blood test, which can detect pregnancy earlier and more accurately than urine tests. Additionally, if you continue to experience unusual symptoms, such as significant pain or changes in discharge, seeking medical advice is essential.

In summary, while the likelihood of pregnancy in your situation seems low, it is not impossible. Factors such as stress, hormonal changes, and the timing of ovulation can all play a role in your menstrual cycle. If you remain concerned or if your symptoms persist, consulting with a healthcare provider would be the best course of action to ensure your health and peace of mind.

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