Do you have a regular menstrual cycle, and now, you realize that your period is delayed for a few days already? If this is the case, you have probably rushed to the pharmacy and get a home pregnancy test kit to check whether you are pregnant or not. But if the test turns out to be negative, this can cause confusion or even anxiety on you because of your delayed period.
So, what are the possible reasons for having a missed or delayed period when pregnancy tests give a negative result? Read along to learn more about this topic and find answers to your questions.
Negative Test Result and No Menstrual Period
If you got yourself a pregnancy test kit and the result is negative, you may wonder what the actual cause of your delayed period. The thing is, you cannot be 100 percent sure that you really are not pregnant even if the test result says otherwise. In fact, you MAY be pregnant even if the reading is negative due to some reasons. For instance, the sensitivity level of the test kit that you have used is probably low, which means it cannot detect lower levels of hGG. This means, if you are delayed for only about 4 days and take the test at this time, it is possible that the hormone levelsare not quite high yet. Hence, the result will only turn out as negative.
In other words, there is a chance that you may be pregnant, but the test kit is just unable to determine it accurately due to its low sensitivity level. To make sure you get the results right the first time, it is recommended that you use a brand that has higher sensitivity level. Then, make it a point to read and follow usage instructions carefully to avoid errors in the test results.
The urine sample to use must be first thing in the morning, since it is the most concentrated as this time of the day. Moreover, give the kit about 5 to 10 minutes to read the sample before you decide to discard it. Some women get an inaccurate test result because they use the wrong sample, or they do not take the pregnancy test earlier in the morning.
Another reason for an incorrect reading is the low level of hCG hormone. Upon implantation of the fertilized ovum, there are various rates of hCG hormone produced by women. Usually, the level of hCG goes to about 20mlU/ml in at least 7 or 10 days post-ovulation. However, there are women who tend to produce less hormone levels. If the kit reagent?s anti-hCG antibodies fail to react with your hCG, positive results may be read in a delayed manner.
Lastly, pregnancy may still be possible in spite of the negative reading from a test in the case of an ectopic pregnancy. So, if you are unsure about the reason for a negative result and missed period, it is best to consult a doctor to have a better understanding of your condition after undergoing a blood test and other examinations.
Missed Period and Not Pregnant
If the test results tells you are not pregnant, but your period is still delayed, this may mean that your cycle is undergoing hormonal changes. Changes in the hormonal levels may also occur due to several factors including lack of sleep, poor nutrition, stress and exhaustion. Thus, even if you take a pregnancy test, the result will only come out as negative because there is nothing to your condition but imbalances and changes in the hormone level.
Yet, you will have to visit your doctor to fully determine your situation. If you are experiencing frequent bouts of exhaustion and fatigue, it is important to get your condition straightened out. This way, you will be able to improve the quality of your life and overall health through proper diet, exercise and stress management.
Important Things to Remember
Missing your period for several days or not having any period for consecutive months will require a thorough evaluation by your doctor. There are some issues linked with this condition such as thyroid problems. In fact, if you are experiencing other symptoms such as weight gain, over-exhaustion and hair loss, this may mean thyroid dysfunction. Medications prescribed by your doctor can help restore your regular cycle, along with proper treatment of these symptoms.
