Can You Be Pregnant Even If Ultrasound Shows Nothing?

Is it possible to be pregnant but not visible on an ultrasound?

Hello, doctor! I have a question to ask you.
My menstrual cycle started on May 10 and ended on May 13.
My cycle ranges from a maximum of 35 days to a minimum of 24 days, but it usually occurs around the 10th to 18th of each month.
Is my cycle considered regular or irregular?
Additionally, I had intercourse with my husband from May 24 to May 29 and again on June 2.
What is the likelihood of becoming pregnant? After having intercourse on May 24, I experienced drowsiness, fatigue, and a dull pain in my lower abdomen, which felt similar to the onset of my period.
I took a home pregnancy test on May 29 and 30, but it was negative.
I haven't taken another pregnancy test yet, and I'm unsure if I'm pregnant since my expected period is due on the 9th.

Today, I visited a gynecologist for an ultrasound, but the doctor did not provide detailed information about whether I am pregnant, only stating that there was nothing visible.
I would like to know if it is possible to be pregnant but not have it detected by the ultrasound, or should I really wait until my expected period date has passed before getting tested for pregnancy again for more accurate results?

Hao nan, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2012/06/07

Dr. Liu Yuhong reply Obstetrics and Gynecology

1.
"Is it possible to be pregnant but not detectable by ultrasound?" Urine pregnancy tests typically detect pregnancy about one week earlier than ultrasound examinations; therefore, it is quite normal for a urine test to show a positive result while an ultrasound does not detect anything in very early pregnancy.
2.
"So, is my menstrual cycle considered regular or irregular?" Menstrual cycles can vary in length, and a cycle that lasts between 21 to 35 days is considered regular.
3.
"What is the likelihood of becoming pregnant under these circumstances?" The natural conception rate is approximately 20-25%.
4.
"If I'm unsure whether I'm pregnant, is taking a urine pregnancy test a good option?" Taking a urine pregnancy test is a quick, economical, and reliable method to determine pregnancy.

Reply Date: 2012/06/07

More Info

When it comes to early pregnancy detection, the use of ultrasound is a common method employed by healthcare providers. However, it is important to understand the limitations of ultrasound technology, particularly in the very early stages of pregnancy.
In your case, if you had a menstrual cycle that started on May 10 and ended on May 13, and you had unprotected intercourse from May 24 to June 2, you may have conceived during this time. The timing of ovulation typically occurs about 14 days after the first day of your last menstrual period, which would place it around late May to early June, depending on the length of your cycle. If you are pregnant, the earliest that an ultrasound can typically detect a gestational sac is around 4 to 5 weeks after the last menstrual period. The fetal pole, which is the early development of the embryo, usually becomes visible around 6 weeks of gestation.

If your ultrasound did not show anything, it could be due to several reasons. One possibility is that it is simply too early in the pregnancy for the ultrasound to detect any signs of a developing embryo. In some cases, a very early pregnancy may not be visible on an ultrasound, particularly if the gestational age is less than 5 weeks. Additionally, if there is a very early miscarriage or a biochemical pregnancy, the ultrasound may also show no signs of pregnancy.

It is also important to consider the sensitivity of the ultrasound equipment being used. Transvaginal ultrasounds are more sensitive than abdominal ultrasounds and can detect earlier signs of pregnancy. If your healthcare provider performed an abdominal ultrasound and did not see anything, it might be worth discussing the option of a transvaginal ultrasound for a more accurate assessment.

Regarding your symptoms of fatigue and lower abdominal discomfort, these can be common early signs of pregnancy, but they can also be attributed to other factors such as hormonal changes or premenstrual symptoms. If you are experiencing unusual symptoms or if your menstrual period does not arrive as expected, it is advisable to take a home pregnancy test for a more definitive answer.
If the test is negative and your period still does not come, it may be wise to follow up with your healthcare provider for further evaluation. They may recommend repeating the ultrasound in a week or so, as sometimes it takes time for the pregnancy to develop to a point where it can be detected.

In summary, while it is possible to be pregnant and have an ultrasound show nothing, it is often due to the timing of the ultrasound in relation to the gestational age. If you suspect you might be pregnant, consider taking a home pregnancy test and follow up with your healthcare provider for further guidance.

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