Is Pregnancy Possible? Delayed Menstruation and Options

Is it possible to be pregnant?

Hello, doctor.
My last menstrual period started on January 14, and I was supposed to get my period around the 10th of this month, but it hasn't arrived yet.
I have already used a pregnancy test and visited a gynecologist, who confirmed that I am not pregnant.
After a transvaginal ultrasound, the doctor mentioned that my uterine lining is still very thin, which may be due to lifestyle or stress causing a delay.
Therefore, they prescribed a 5-day course of progesterone and said that after finishing it, I could wait another week to see what happens.
What does this mean? Is there still a possibility of pregnancy? If I am indeed pregnant, how many weeks along can I take medication to terminate the pregnancy?

Li, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2016/02/23

Dr. Cao Guotao reply Obstetrics and Gynecology

Hello, you should not be pregnant.
The medication prescribed by the doctor is a menstrual induction drug, and typically, menstruation will occur within a week after finishing the medication.
The doctor mentioned that you can wait another week after finishing the medication, which is likely what they meant.
If your period does not arrive within a week, it is advisable to see a gynecologist.
Wishing you good health.

Reply Date: 2016/02/23

More Info

It sounds like you are experiencing a challenging situation regarding your menstrual cycle and potential pregnancy. Let's break down your concerns and provide some clarity on the matter.

First, it's important to understand that a delayed menstruation can occur for various reasons, including stress, hormonal imbalances, changes in lifestyle, or even underlying medical conditions. In your case, since you've already taken a pregnancy test and had an ultrasound that showed a thin uterine lining, it seems that the likelihood of pregnancy is low at this moment. The doctor’s recommendation to take progesterone (the hormone in the medication you mentioned) is a common approach to help regulate your menstrual cycle. Progesterone can help thicken the uterine lining and may induce a period if your body is not producing enough of it naturally.

Regarding your question about the possibility of pregnancy, while the tests you've taken so far indicate that you are not pregnant, it is still possible to have a false negative, especially if the test was taken too early or if there were issues with the test itself. However, given the medical evaluations you've undergone, it seems that the chances of being pregnant are quite slim.

If you do end up taking the progesterone and your period does not arrive after the treatment, it would be advisable to follow up with your healthcare provider for further evaluation. They may suggest additional tests or examinations to determine the underlying cause of your delayed menstruation.

Now, concerning your question about terminating a pregnancy if you were to find out you were pregnant later on, it is crucial to understand the legal and medical guidelines surrounding this issue. In many places, medical abortion can be performed up to 10 weeks into the pregnancy, but this varies by location and specific circumstances. If you suspect you might be pregnant, it is essential to consult with a healthcare provider as soon as possible. They can provide you with the necessary information and options based on your individual situation.

In summary, while the current indications suggest that you are not pregnant, the use of progesterone is a standard method to help regulate your cycle. If your period does not occur after the treatment, further evaluation will be necessary. If you have any concerns about potential pregnancy or the options available to you, do not hesitate to reach out to your healthcare provider for personalized advice and support. They are there to help you navigate through this situation and ensure your health and well-being.

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