Irregular Periods: Could You Be Pregnant? - Obstetrics and Gynecology

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Hello, Doctor.
My menstrual cycle is often irregular.
I had my period on January 8, but I did not have it in February.
During my ovulation period, I experienced some menstrual cramps, which stopped afterward, but recently the cramps have started again.
Currently, my period is two days late.
I have visited the gynecologist twice, and both doctors told me that I am not pregnant (I had an ultrasound and a pregnancy test).
On January 19, I had unprotected intercourse with my boyfriend, but we did not engage in full penetration and withdrew.
I would like to ask the doctor if my current situation could indicate pregnancy.
Aside from the menstrual cramps, I have no other symptoms of pregnancy.

Lin, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2023/03/07

Dr. Cao Guotao reply Obstetrics and Gynecology


Hello, it seems that you are not pregnant.
You can just observe for now.
Wait for another week or two, and if your period still does not arrive, it is advisable to see a gynecologist.
Wishing you good health.

Reply Date: 2023/03/07

More Info


When dealing with irregular menstrual cycles, the possibility of pregnancy can often be confusing and concerning. In your case, you mentioned that your last menstrual period started on January 8, and you have not had a period in February. You also experienced some menstrual-like cramps, which can be common in both early pregnancy and premenstrual syndrome (PMS).
Given that you have visited your gynecologist twice and received negative results from both ultrasound and pregnancy tests, the likelihood of being pregnant is low. Pregnancy tests are generally quite accurate, especially when taken after a missed period. However, it is important to note that irregular periods can sometimes lead to confusion regarding timing and symptoms.

Irregular menstrual cycles can be caused by a variety of factors, including hormonal imbalances, stress, changes in weight, excessive exercise, or underlying health conditions such as polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). If your periods are consistently irregular, it may be beneficial to discuss this with your healthcare provider to explore potential underlying causes and treatment options.

The fact that you experienced some cramping around your ovulation period is also noteworthy. Ovulation can sometimes cause discomfort or pain, known as mittelschmerz, which can be mistaken for menstrual cramps. Since you mentioned having unprotected intercourse on January 19, it is understandable to be concerned about the possibility of pregnancy. However, since you did not engage in full intercourse and your tests have come back negative, it is less likely that you are pregnant.

If your period does not arrive soon, it may be worth considering a follow-up appointment with your gynecologist. They can provide further evaluation and possibly recommend hormonal treatments or lifestyle changes to help regulate your menstrual cycle. Additionally, if you continue to experience cramping or any other unusual symptoms, it is important to seek medical advice to rule out any other potential issues.

In summary, while the possibility of pregnancy cannot be completely ruled out without further testing, the negative results from your healthcare provider suggest that it is unlikely. Irregular periods can be frustrating and concerning, but they are relatively common and can often be managed with the right medical guidance. If you have any further questions or concerns, do not hesitate to reach out to your healthcare provider for personalized advice and support.

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