Early Pregnancy Symptoms: What to Watch For

Question
My husband and I have been trying to get pregnant, however, now, I am a little concerned. Normally my periods are a "gush" when I start along with a lot of hurtful cramping, then it tapers off until I only have brown discharge at the end of my cycle. However, this month, I had no cramping and for 1 day (the day I was due to start) I had brown discharge, then the 2nd day it turned red, yet, still not "gushing", I only need a panty liner still. I took a test on my 2nd day even though I am bleeding light, it was negative. I have NEVER had a cycle where it was "light", I have always had a heavy cycle. I am concerned that something is wrong with me, or may I be pregnant? If I may be pregnant, when should I try taking another test? Please help me. If I had insurance, I would go see a doctor, but we are not eligible for health insurance until January. Thank you for your help, in advance.

Answer
Dear "Concerned",

The test you did was most likely done too early, even if you did conceive a pregnancy. Usually I recommend waiting until the week after a missed or spotty period before testing to minimize the incidence of false negative results.

The light cycle may have simply been due to hormone fluctuations this particular cycle. This can happen with additional stress, change in diet, weight loss, weight gain, strenuous exercise, etc,... However, because it was a situation that you have never experienced before and you have been trying to conceive, I would suggest waiting another week and testing again. I usually do not recommend testing any more frequently than every 5-7 days since your hCG levels tend to rise slowly very early on and it simply wastes money to test more often than that. Make sure when you test that you use 1st morning urine to get a concentrated sample for the most accurate results.

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

Brenda