Is it possible to get a positive pregnancy test result for the first pregnancy but not for subsequent pregnancies?
I am a mother who gave birth to a child last year.
My menstrual cycle has always been quite regular, usually starting around the 9th of the month, give or take a day.
However, this month it is three days late, and I am worried that I might be pregnant.
I have taken three pregnancy tests, but they all came back negative.
With my previous pregnancy, I tested positive on the same day my period was due, and the two lines were very clear.
I also went to the hospital for an internal examination, but they couldn't confirm anything as it was still too early.
Since the day my last period ended, I had sexual intercourse a week later and tested negative.
Then, when my expected period date arrived, I tested again two to three days later, but still negative.
Just the day before yesterday, I tested again after being one day late, and it was still negative.
Is it possible that I could be pregnant?
12345, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2016/03/12
Dr. Lü Lizheng reply Obstetrics and Gynecology
It is recommended to take a pregnancy test 18 days after sexual intercourse for more accurate results.
If the test is still negative after 18 days, it is likely that you are not pregnant.
Sincerely, Dr.
Lu Li-Cheng, Taoyuan Hospital.
Reply Date: 2016/03/12
More Info
It sounds like you are experiencing a lot of uncertainty regarding your menstrual cycle and the possibility of being pregnant after having your first child. Let's break down your situation and address your concerns.
Firstly, it is entirely possible to conceive after having a child. Many women experience changes in their menstrual cycles after childbirth, which can affect the timing of ovulation and menstruation. If your cycle has been regular in the past, a delay of three days could indicate a potential pregnancy, but it is also important to consider other factors that could affect your cycle, such as stress, hormonal changes, or even breastfeeding if you are still nursing.
You mentioned that you have taken three pregnancy tests, all of which came back negative. Home pregnancy tests work by detecting the hormone human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) in your urine, which is produced shortly after a fertilized egg attaches to the uterine lining. If you are testing too early, it is possible that your body has not yet produced enough hCG to be detected. Generally, it is recommended to wait until at least the first day of your missed period to take a pregnancy test for the most accurate result. Since you have already missed your period, it might be worth waiting a few more days and testing again, especially if you are experiencing any early pregnancy symptoms, such as nausea, breast tenderness, or fatigue.
Regarding your experience of having a negative test even after a missed period, there is a possibility of a "cryptic pregnancy," where a woman does not realize she is pregnant until later in the pregnancy. However, this is relatively rare and usually occurs when there are irregularities in hormone levels or other underlying health issues. If you continue to have negative tests but still suspect you might be pregnant, it would be advisable to consult with your healthcare provider. They can perform a blood test to measure hCG levels, which can provide a more definitive answer.
Additionally, if you have had unprotected intercourse, it is essential to consider the timing of your ovulation. Sperm can live inside the female reproductive tract for up to five days, so if you had intercourse during your fertile window, there is a chance of conception. If your cycles are typically regular, tracking your ovulation can help you understand your fertility patterns better.
In summary, while it is possible to get a positive pregnancy test after having your first child, the negative tests you have taken suggest that you may not be pregnant at this time. However, if your period does not arrive soon or if you have any concerns, it is best to consult with a healthcare professional for further evaluation and guidance. They can help you understand your menstrual cycle better, discuss any potential changes since your first pregnancy, and provide reassurance or necessary interventions if needed.
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