Could She Be Pregnant? Delayed Periods and Testing - Obstetrics and Gynecology

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Can I get pregnant?


Hello doctor, I would like to inquire about my girlfriend's situation.
Her period is currently two days late, and we had intimate contact on November 10.
She took pregnancy tests on November 27 and December 2, both showing one line.
However, she mentioned that she has no signs of menstruation.
I would like to know if there is a possibility of pregnancy in this case.
Additionally, she recently had a cold and took medication; could that have any effect? Thank you, doctor.
🙏🏿

Niming, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2022/12/05

Dr. Lin Lixuan reply Obstetrics and Gynecology


Over-the-counter pregnancy tests are less sensitive than blood tests for detecting pregnancy levels.
If there are any doubts, it is advisable to visit a nearby obstetrics and gynecology clinic for a blood test or ultrasound examination.
Some ingredients in cold medications can adversely affect early fetal development, so it is recommended to bring the medication packaging or prescription to the obstetrics and gynecology clinic for further evaluation.

Reply Date: 2022/12/05

More Info


When it comes to understanding delayed periods and the possibility of pregnancy, several factors need to be considered. First and foremost, a delayed menstrual cycle can be caused by various reasons, including stress, hormonal imbalances, changes in weight, and even illness. In your case, since your girlfriend's period is already two days late, it is understandable to be concerned about the possibility of pregnancy, especially after having intimate relations on November 10.

From the information provided, it appears that your girlfriend has taken two pregnancy tests on November 27 and December 2, both of which returned negative results. Generally, home pregnancy tests are quite reliable when used correctly, especially if they are taken after a missed period. However, it is important to note that the accuracy of these tests can be influenced by several factors, including the timing of the test and the concentration of hCG (human chorionic gonadotropin) in the urine. If the test is taken too early, it may not detect the pregnancy hormone, leading to a false negative result.

Regarding your girlfriend's recent illness and medication, certain medications can indeed affect menstrual cycles. For example, some over-the-counter medications and antibiotics can interfere with hormonal balance, potentially leading to a delayed period. Additionally, if she was experiencing significant stress or illness, this could also contribute to changes in her menstrual cycle.

Given that your girlfriend has not experienced any premenstrual symptoms, this could suggest that her body is undergoing some changes. It is not uncommon for women to experience irregularities in their menstrual cycles due to various factors, including stress, lifestyle changes, or health issues.
If her period does not arrive within a week, it would be advisable for her to take another pregnancy test. If the test remains negative and her period still does not come, it would be wise for her to consult a healthcare provider. A doctor can perform a blood test to check for pregnancy, which is more sensitive than home urine tests, and can also evaluate other potential causes for the delayed period.

In summary, while there is a possibility of pregnancy given the timing of your intimate relations, the negative pregnancy tests suggest that it is less likely. However, factors such as recent illness and medication could be influencing her menstrual cycle. If her period does not arrive soon, further testing and a consultation with a healthcare provider would be the best course of action to ensure her health and peace of mind.

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