How Soon Can You Confirm Pregnancy After a Missed Period? - Obstetrics and Gynecology

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How long does it take to know if you are pregnant?


It has been more than 7 days since my period was due.
On the fifth day of the missed period, I went to the hospital for a check-up and was told I am not pregnant.
I also received medication to induce menstruation, but it has now been over 7 days and my period still hasn't come.
Is there still a possibility of pregnancy? I have been experiencing nausea and a feeling of wanting to vomit lately.
What should I do now?

Memei, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2006/11/25

Dr. Li Guanghan reply Obstetrics and Gynecology


Hello: The pregnancy test showed no pregnancy, but after finishing the menstrual induction medication, it has been a week and still no period.
You should return for a follow-up appointment to check for pregnancy at the Hsinchu City Hospital Obstetrics and Gynecology Department.

Reply Date: 2006/11/25

More Info


If you have missed your period for more than seven days and are experiencing symptoms such as nausea and vomiting, it is understandable to be concerned about the possibility of pregnancy. The first step in confirming a pregnancy is to take a home pregnancy test, which is typically accurate if taken after a missed period. However, since you mentioned that you took a test five days after your missed period and it was negative, it is possible that you are not pregnant, especially if the test was taken correctly.

It is important to note that home pregnancy tests work by detecting the hormone hCG (human chorionic gonadotropin) in your urine, which is produced shortly after a fertilized egg attaches to the uterine lining. If you tested too early, it might not have been able to detect the hormone yet, leading to a false negative result. Generally, the best time to take a pregnancy test is at least one week after a missed period for the most accurate result.

Given that you are now more than seven days late, and if you are still experiencing symptoms like nausea, it would be advisable to consult with a healthcare provider. They can perform a blood test, which is more sensitive than a urine test and can detect pregnancy earlier. Additionally, they can help rule out other potential causes for your symptoms, such as hormonal imbalances or other medical conditions.

If you are concerned about the possibility of being pregnant despite the negative test, it is also worth considering that stress, changes in weight, excessive exercise, or health issues can also lead to missed periods. The nausea you are experiencing could be related to other factors, such as gastrointestinal issues or anxiety.

In summary, while a missed period and symptoms like nausea can indicate pregnancy, a negative test result five days after the missed period suggests that pregnancy is less likely. However, since you are still experiencing symptoms and have not had your period, it is crucial to follow up with a healthcare provider for further evaluation and testing. They can provide you with the necessary guidance and support based on your individual situation.

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