Delayed Periods and Breast Discomfort: Possible Pregnancy Signs - Obstetrics and Gynecology

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Hello doctor, my girlfriend's period has been delayed for a long time.
We had intercourse in early February, and her last period was on January 15, with the one before that on December 17.
Now it's March 1, and she still hasn't gotten her period.
Additionally, the upper part of her breasts feels a bit hard, and sometimes it hurts when pressed.
She has also been experiencing lower abdominal pain for about a week, and for the past three days, she has been discharging a fluid that she describes as brownish and slippery when dried.
What could be the cause of this? Is she possibly pregnant? Thank you for your help, doctor.

JMS, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2005/03/01

Dr. Li Guanghan reply Obstetrics and Gynecology


Hello: If your period is due and has not arrived, please go to a gynecology clinic immediately for a pregnancy test.
Hsinchu Hospital, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology.

Reply Date: 2005/03/01

More Info


When it comes to understanding delayed periods and breast discomfort, there are several factors to consider, especially in the context of potential pregnancy. Based on the information provided, your girlfriend's last menstrual period was on January 15, and she has not had her period by March 1. This delay, combined with breast tenderness and abdominal pain, raises questions about whether she could be pregnant.

Firstly, it is important to note that a missed period is one of the most common early signs of pregnancy. However, there are other reasons for a delayed period, including stress, hormonal imbalances, changes in weight, or underlying health conditions. In your girlfriend's case, the absence of menstruation for over a month, coupled with breast discomfort and abdominal pain, could suggest pregnancy, but it is not definitive without further testing.

Breast tenderness and changes in breast tissue can occur due to hormonal fluctuations, which are common in the menstrual cycle and can also be associated with pregnancy. The hardness and sensitivity of the breasts, particularly in the upper area, can be a sign of hormonal changes that occur during early pregnancy. However, these symptoms can also be related to premenstrual syndrome (PMS) or other hormonal changes unrelated to pregnancy.

The abdominal pain your girlfriend is experiencing could be due to various reasons. If it is localized and persistent, it could indicate a potential issue that should be evaluated by a healthcare professional. The presence of brownish discharge, especially if it is smooth and slippery, could be related to ovulation or could indicate implantation bleeding if she is indeed pregnant. However, brown discharge can also occur due to other factors, such as hormonal changes or the onset of menstruation.

Given that your girlfriend has missed her period and is experiencing these symptoms, it is advisable for her to take a home pregnancy test if she has not done so already. Home pregnancy tests are generally reliable when taken after a missed period. If the test is negative and her period does not arrive, it would be prudent for her to consult a healthcare provider for further evaluation. A healthcare professional can perform a more sensitive blood test to determine pregnancy and assess any other underlying issues that may be causing her symptoms.

In summary, while the signs you describe could indicate pregnancy, they are not conclusive on their own. Delayed periods can result from various factors, and breast tenderness and abdominal pain can have multiple causes. It is essential for your girlfriend to take a pregnancy test and seek medical advice if her symptoms persist or worsen. A healthcare provider can offer a comprehensive evaluation and appropriate care based on her individual situation.

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