Why is My Stomach Bloated if I am Not Pregnant?

Published: August 29, 2017
Dear TeenHealthFX,
Periods were delayed after a dry humping incident with 3 layers of clothes. Home Pregnancy tests were negative. I took homoeopathic medicines to induce periods after which, they came 15 days late. the next period came on time. Is it possible that I may still be pregnant despite negative hpts and should I really count the period as a proper period since it did not come naturally but rather through medicines. I mean what if I continue to be pregnant despite negative hpts and periods. I do have noticeable abdominal bloating. is all this just stress? No other symptom of pregnancy. Only bloating. Why is the stomach bloating if there is no chance for pregnancy?
Signed: Why is My Stomach Bloated if I am Not Pregnant?

Dear Why is My Stomach Bloated if I am Not Pregnant?,

TeenHealthFX thinks that it is very important for you to meet with a doctor, such as your primary care physician, adolescent medicine specialist or gynecologist for the following reasons:

  • To learn how pregnancy happens. “Dry humping” with three layers of clothing on cannot cause pregnancy to occur. Pregnancy can only occur when the sperm contained in ejaculatory fluids (and sometime pre-ejaculatory fluids) comes into contact with the vagina. It would be helpful for your doctor to discuss this with you and for you to have the opportunity to ask any questions you may have about what does and doesn’t cause pregnancy to occur.
  • To talk about your menstrual cycle. TeenHealthFX is not sure why you took medicine to “induce periods”. However, if you have an irregular menstrual cycle it would be helpful to check in with a doctor so you can find out the cause and how to best address the issue.
  • To learn about practicing safer sex. TeenHealthFX is not sure if you are having intercourse yet, however, it is important that you know how to protect yourself from unwanted pregnancies and the transmission of STDs if you are currently having sex or for when you decide to start having intercourse in the future.
  • To find out what is causing the abdominal bloating. Bloating can be a result of pregnancy, however, there are many other things which can cause stomach bloating as well. Bloating can be caused by overeating, eating too quickly, or eating more what would be considered a healthy amount of fats. Dairy products can cause bloating if you have trouble digesting lactose. Artificial sweeteners and other processed foods can cause bloating because the human body has trouble digesting these types of things. Again, there are many reasons bloating can occur so it is best to meet with a doctor who can help you to understand the cause and how to best address it.

 

If you don't have a doctor and live in northern New Jersey, you can call the Adolescent/Young Adult Center for Health at 973-971-5199 for an appointment with an adolescent medicine specialist or contact your local teen health center or Planned Parenthood. A Planned Parenthood health center is a good option if you have concerns about cost or confidentiality issues. You can also contact your insurance company for a list of in-network providers.

FX also suggests that you check out the links in our Resource of the Month: Planned Parenthood Resources on Safer Sex so that you can learn about sexual readiness, how pregnancy happens, pregnancy tests, emergency contraception, birth control, STDs and more. The more educated you are about these topics, the more likely you will make healthy decisions for yourself when it comes to your sexual health.

Signed: TeenHealthFX

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