Abdominal Changes: Pregnancy Symptoms or Other Causes?

Abdominal distension?

Hello, it has been 6 weeks since the possibility of pregnancy, but I still cannot confirm if I am pregnant.
I am experiencing the following situations:
1.
My breasts are painful when pressed, which I also experienced during the first week.
I took emergency contraception at that time, and after what seemed like a menstrual period, the pain subsided.
However, it has returned.
Is this a sign of menstruation? (But I have never had similar symptoms before my period.) Or is it due to pregnancy, causing breast tenderness?
2.
My weight and abdomen are continuously increasing.
The abdomen appears largest in the evening or after holding my urine.
Does holding urine cause the abdomen to swell? (It looks like I am five months pregnant.) I have also noticed an increase in the frequency of urination.
3.
My belly button, which has never been closing before, is slowly closing now.
Why is this happening?
4.
It has been one month since my last menstrual period, but I still have not had it (the period came after the possibility of pregnancy).
5.
Could the weight gain and abdominal enlargement be due to residual effects of the emergency contraception? (But it has been over a month; is it possible that the medication is still in my system?)
I have many questions.
Thank you for your patient responses, and I really appreciate it.

Wu, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2015/09/08

Dr. Lü Lizheng reply Obstetrics and Gynecology

1.
To confirm pregnancy, checking the abdomen or breasts is not accurate; it is still recommended to take a urine pregnancy test, which is more reliable.
If it has been more than two weeks since the last sexual intercourse, a positive result should be detectable if pregnancy has occurred.

2.
There are many reasons for abdominal enlargement; it is not caused by holding urine or taking emergency contraception.
It is possible that you have gained weight (you can measure your weight yourself), and I encourage you to seek medical evaluation.
3.
Breast pain is usually caused by elevated hormone levels stimulating the mammary glands.
There are many possible reasons for elevated hormone levels, which could simply be due to cyclical hormonal changes.
If necessary, you can seek medical evaluation.
4.
If your menstrual period is significantly delayed, it is advisable to seek medical evaluation.

Respectfully,
Dr.
Lu Li-Cheng, Taoyuan Hospital

Reply Date: 2015/09/08

More Info

Understanding abdominal changes during early pregnancy can be complex, especially when symptoms overlap with other conditions. Based on your description, let's address your concerns systematically.

1. Breast Pain: Breast tenderness is a common symptom of early pregnancy due to hormonal changes, particularly increased levels of estrogen and progesterone. This tenderness can also occur before menstruation, making it difficult to distinguish between the two. Since you mentioned experiencing breast pain after taking emergency contraception, it's possible that hormonal fluctuations from the medication could have contributed to your symptoms. If the pain persists or worsens, it would be wise to consult a healthcare provider for further evaluation.

2. Abdominal Changes: It's not uncommon for women to experience bloating or a sensation of abdominal enlargement during early pregnancy. This can be exacerbated by factors such as fluid retention, hormonal changes, and even constipation, which is common in early pregnancy. The act of holding urine can temporarily distend the bladder, leading to a feeling of fullness or enlargement in the abdomen. However, if you notice significant changes in your abdomen's size or shape, it’s important to discuss this with your doctor to rule out any underlying issues.

3. Changes Around the Belly Button: The sensation of your belly button "closing" or changing can be attributed to the stretching of the abdominal muscles and skin as your body prepares for potential pregnancy. This is a normal physiological response, but if you notice any unusual changes or discomfort, it’s advisable to seek medical advice.

4. Missed Period: A missed period is one of the most common early signs of pregnancy. However, since you mentioned that you had some bleeding that you thought might be your period, it’s essential to clarify whether this was indeed a menstrual period or implantation bleeding, which can occur when a fertilized egg attaches to the uterine lining. If you have not had a regular menstrual cycle since then, it would be beneficial to take a home pregnancy test or consult with a healthcare provider for a blood test to confirm pregnancy.

5. Weight Gain and Bloating: Weight gain and abdominal bloating can be influenced by various factors, including hormonal changes from the emergency contraception you took. While it’s unlikely that the effects of the emergency contraceptive would last this long, individual responses to hormonal medications can vary. If you are experiencing significant weight gain or changes in your body that concern you, it’s important to discuss these with your healthcare provider.

In summary, many of the symptoms you are experiencing could be attributed to early pregnancy or hormonal changes from medications. However, it is crucial to consult with a healthcare provider for a thorough evaluation, especially if symptoms persist or worsen. They can provide personalized advice, conduct necessary tests, and help you understand what is happening with your body during this time. Remember, early pregnancy can be a time of significant change, and it’s essential to prioritize your health and well-being.

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