Missed Period & Possible Pregnancy: What To Do?

Question
My last real period was jan. 30. I had sex on the 12 of feb. I was suppose to get my next period on the 28 of feb, but I was late. I now got my period on the 4 of march, yet its been lighter then usual. I took a test but it was negative. When should I take another test? Am I pregnant? I'm only 17, I'm scared:/"

Answer
Dear Nicole,

Anytime there is unprotected sex within the last cycle or two there is a chance for pregnancy. Although some tests claim accuracy on the first day of a missed period, I usually suggest that women wait until the week after a missed or spotty period before testing for pregnancy. This tends to minimize the incidence of false negative results and also avoids wasting money on a test for a simple delay of a period by a few days. When you do test, make sure to use 1st morning urine to get a concentrated sample for the most accurate results.

I would suggest waiting another five days and testing again. If those results are negative, you can either wait for the next cycle to see if your periods resume or have your doctor's office do a quantitative blood pregnancy test (serum beta hCG). That test will give an actual amount of hCG in your bloodstream rather than just a positive/negative result. Any amount of 25 mIU/ml or more would be considered positive for pregnancy.

I hope this has helped you and answered your question. I wish you well.

Brenda

P.S. They hate wearing condoms, but WE DON'T CARE!!! Protect yourself! It's not just about pregnancy anymore. If they want to be with you bad enough, they will wear one. If they don't, then why are you with them in the first place, right? Pass it on to your girls - there's power in numbers! :)