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What Causes Delayed Periods And Spotting With Negative UPT?

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Posted on Mon, 28 Jul 2014
Question: Hello, I am convinced that I'm pregnant but I have gotten two negative tests the past two days. I have two kids, but I'm thrown right now. I've suspected for the past three months or so but have had some sort of bleeding, too heavy to be implantation bleeding, and this month there's nothing. I have all the symptoms of early pregnancy. I'm not sure what to think right now. A professional opinion would be appreciated. I know stress can cause delayed periods but no matter how stressed I am, I'm never late. I've always been that way.
doctor
Answered by Dr. Michelle Gibson James (16 minutes later)
Brief Answer:
HCG detectable by day 11 to 14

Detailed Answer:
Hi, thanks for using healthcare magic

Pregnancy tests pick up the HCG hormone, the blood tests pick it up a few days earlier than the urine tests.

The levels of HCG DOUBLE every 2 to 3 days in pregnancy (reaching a peak in the first trimester) and are detectable by most pregnancy tests by day 11 to 14 of conception.

If the tests were done in this time frame , then they are likely accurate. If you wish to be sure you can either wait a few more days or ask your doctor for a blood HCG level.
The other option would be an ultrasound which would be able to visualise the uterus and look for any evidence of pregnancy.

As you correctly said, there are some other causes of delayed period. If the repeat test or blood test is negative (or ultrasound if you choose this option) then you and your doctor may consider one of the other causes such as: (1) emotional stress or illness

(2)abnormal levels of thyroid hormone

(3)physical illness

(4)high levels of the prolactin hormone

(5)polycystic ovarian syndrome

(6)extreme physical activity

Summary:(1) HCG detectable by day 11 to 14 of pregnancy
(2)consider either repeat test in a few days (at least 3) , blood test or ultrasound

If these negative, doctor may look for other causes

I hope this helps, feel free to ask any other questions
Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar
doctor
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Follow up: Dr. Michelle Gibson James (34 minutes later)
Most of that info I knew. I didn't know I could request an ultrasound. That is what I want. I felt a flutter earlier today but I know gas feels similar. I usually don't have this problem. Both previous times I found out early. This time I feel pregnant but can't get a result. It's weird.
doctor
Answered by Dr. Michelle Gibson James (14 minutes later)
Brief Answer:
yes can request

Detailed Answer:
HI

Yes, if you want to determine definitely then you can speak to your doctor and ask about the possibility of either the blood test or ultrasound.

Either of these (though ultrasound would be better), would give you a definite answer

Please feel free to ask any other questions
Note: For further follow up on related General & Family Physician Click here.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar
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Answered by
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Dr. Michelle Gibson James

General & Family Physician

Practicing since :2001

Answered : 16808 Questions

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What Causes Delayed Periods And Spotting With Negative UPT?

Brief Answer: HCG detectable by day 11 to 14 Detailed Answer: Hi, thanks for using healthcare magic Pregnancy tests pick up the HCG hormone, the blood tests pick it up a few days earlier than the urine tests. The levels of HCG DOUBLE every 2 to 3 days in pregnancy (reaching a peak in the first trimester) and are detectable by most pregnancy tests by day 11 to 14 of conception. If the tests were done in this time frame , then they are likely accurate. If you wish to be sure you can either wait a few more days or ask your doctor for a blood HCG level. The other option would be an ultrasound which would be able to visualise the uterus and look for any evidence of pregnancy. As you correctly said, there are some other causes of delayed period. If the repeat test or blood test is negative (or ultrasound if you choose this option) then you and your doctor may consider one of the other causes such as: (1) emotional stress or illness (2)abnormal levels of thyroid hormone (3)physical illness (4)high levels of the prolactin hormone (5)polycystic ovarian syndrome (6)extreme physical activity Summary:(1) HCG detectable by day 11 to 14 of pregnancy (2)consider either repeat test in a few days (at least 3) , blood test or ultrasound If these negative, doctor may look for other causes I hope this helps, feel free to ask any other questions