Could She Be Pregnant? Delayed Periods and Symptoms

Can I get pregnant?

Doctor, I would like to ask you about my girlfriend.
Her period was supposed to arrive on the 17th or 18th, but it hasn't come yet, and today is the 24th.
She mentioned that her breasts feel swollen, and sometimes she experiences uterine pain.
We have had sexual intercourse, but it was all through withdrawal.
Last week, she complained of stomach pain and took a stomach medication.
She hasn't taken any birth control pills, but she has been under a lot of stress lately and is very worried about her missed period.

Mr. Huang, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2015/12/24

Dr. Lin Wenbin reply Obstetrics and Gynecology

It's best to see a doctor for an examination; worrying on your own will only make your menstrual cycle more irregular.

Reply Date: 2015/12/24

More Info

When it comes to understanding delayed periods and the possibility of pregnancy, it’s important to consider various factors that can influence a woman’s menstrual cycle. In your girlfriend's case, her period was expected around the 17th or 18th, and now that it is the 24th without menstruation, it raises questions about potential pregnancy or other underlying issues.

First and foremost, it’s crucial to note that a delayed period can indeed be a sign of pregnancy, but it is not the only reason for a missed period. Stress, changes in routine, hormonal imbalances, and even certain medications can all contribute to menstrual irregularities. Given that your girlfriend has been experiencing significant stress, this could be a primary factor affecting her cycle. Stress can lead to hormonal fluctuations that may delay ovulation and, consequently, menstruation.

You mentioned that there was sexual activity, but it was through withdrawal (pulling out) method. While this method can reduce the risk of pregnancy, it is not foolproof. Pre-ejaculate fluid can contain sperm, and if any sperm were to enter the vagina, there is a possibility of conception. Therefore, even with the withdrawal method, there remains a chance of pregnancy, especially if her menstrual cycle is irregular or if ovulation occurred later than expected.

The symptoms your girlfriend is experiencing, such as breast tenderness and abdominal pain, can also be indicative of premenstrual syndrome (PMS) or early pregnancy symptoms. However, these symptoms are not definitive indicators of pregnancy, as they can occur for various reasons, including hormonal changes due to stress or other health issues.

Given that her period is now a week late, it would be advisable for her to take a home pregnancy test. These tests are most accurate when taken after a missed period, as they measure the hormone hCG (human chorionic gonadotropin), which is produced during pregnancy. If the test is negative and her period still does not arrive, it would be wise for her to consult with a healthcare provider. A doctor can perform more sensitive tests and possibly an ultrasound to determine if there are any underlying issues affecting her menstrual cycle.

In summary, while there is a possibility that your girlfriend could be pregnant, especially considering the missed period and symptoms, it is equally important to consider other factors such as stress and hormonal changes. Encouraging her to take a pregnancy test and seek medical advice if her period does not arrive soon would be the best course of action. This way, she can gain clarity on her situation and address any health concerns that may arise.

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