Doctor, I missed my period!!!

This is a common presentation to my clinic. My response will depend on the age of my patient and her intention. She is most probably pregnant or one who is approaching menopause. It could also be some drug (medication) side-effect. There are also other gynae causes for ‘missed period’, which I will write some time later.

Working as an O&G specialist in Puchong, with a relatively young and growing population, pregnancy is still the commonest diagnosis for “missed period”. For this group of women, they come to confirm their pregnancy. Many have come with prior positive test on the urine pregnancy kit. A pelvic ultrasound scan will normally bring glow and joy to these mothers to be.

Most women will come with their spouse, especially if this is their first child. The concerned husband will listen attentively as the excited mom shares her early pregnancy symptoms. I usually let them to clear their doubts, proceed to discuss the 9- month journey towards becoming the super “Mom & Dad” and not forgetting the long list of do’s and don’ts during this critical time.

My most important message is that during the first 3 months (first trimester), the fetus develops rapidly. It is the most vulnerable period as it is prone to malformation caused by teratogen (factors that derail fetal development). Although most women will sail through this period without any untoward incident, some may encounter vaginal bleeding. The first three months is a critical time to determine if the pregnancy will continue or otherwise. The would-be “Mom and Dad” leave my clinic with feelings of joy, and ready to brave through the sea of uncertainty.

Early Pregnancy, a time of sheer joy & uncertainty