I Didn’t Know I Was Pregnant Period Every Month

Are you someone who gets their period regularly and can’t imagine being pregnant without knowing it? You might be surprised to learn that it’s possible to be pregnant and still get your period every month. This phenomenon is known as “cryptic pregnancy,” and it affects a small but significant percentage of women. In this article, we’ll explore what cryptic pregnancy is, what causes it, and what you can do if you suspect you might be experiencing one.

What is Cryptic Pregnancy?

Cryptic pregnancy is a condition where a woman is pregnant but doesn’t know it. The term “cryptic” refers to the fact that the pregnancy is hidden or concealed. In some cases, women with cryptic pregnancies will continue to have regular periods throughout their pregnancy, which can make it difficult to realize what’s happening.

How Common is Cryptic Pregnancy?

It’s difficult to say exactly how common cryptic pregnancy is because it’s a condition that’s not well understood or studied. However, some estimates suggest that between 1 in 400 and 1 in 2,500 pregnancies are cryptic.

What Causes Cryptic Pregnancy?

The causes of cryptic pregnancy are not well understood, but there are a few theories. One theory is that some women have low levels of the pregnancy hormone hCG, which can make it difficult to detect a pregnancy through a pregnancy test. Another theory is that the placenta is not properly attached to the uterus, which can result in bleeding that is mistaken for a period.

Symptoms of Cryptic Pregnancy

The symptoms of cryptic pregnancy can vary widely from woman to woman, but some common symptoms include:

• Continued menstruation throughout pregnancy
• Weight gain
• Fatigue
• Nausea or vomiting
• Back pain
• Breast changes

How is Cryptic Pregnancy Diagnosed?

Cryptic pregnancy can be difficult to diagnose, but there are a few tests that can help. A blood test can measure the level of hCG in the blood, which can be an indicator of pregnancy. An ultrasound can also be used to detect a pregnancy, although it can be difficult to see the fetus if the pregnancy is in the early stages.

What Can You Do if You Suspect You Have a Cryptic Pregnancy?

If you suspect you might be experiencing a cryptic pregnancy, the first thing you should do is see a healthcare provider. They can perform a pregnancy test and ultrasound to confirm or rule out a pregnancy. If you are pregnant, they can also provide you with prenatal care and help you plan for the birth of your child.

Can You Give Birth Without Knowing You’re Pregnant?

It’s possible to give birth without knowing you’re pregnant, although it’s rare. In some cases, women with cryptic pregnancies will have a sudden onset of labor and deliver a healthy baby without any prior knowledge of their pregnancy.

What Are the Risks of Cryptic Pregnancy?

Cryptic pregnancy can be risky because women who don’t know they’re pregnant may continue to engage in behaviors that are harmful to the fetus. For example, they may drink alcohol or take medications that are not safe during pregnancy. Additionally, women with cryptic pregnancies may not seek prenatal care, which can increase the risk of complications during labor and delivery.

Conclusion

In conclusion, if you’re someone who gets their period every month and didn’t know it was possible to be pregnant without knowing it, you’re not alone. Cryptic pregnancy is a rare but real phenomenon that affects a small percentage of women. If you suspect you might be experiencing a cryptic pregnancy, it’s important to seek medical attention as soon as possible to ensure the health and safety of you and your baby.

FAQs

1. Can you have a cryptic pregnancy with negative pregnancy tests?

Yes, it’s possible to have a cryptic pregnancy with negative pregnancy tests. This is because some women have low levels of hCG, which can make it difficult to detect a pregnancy through a pregnancy test.

2. Can you have a cryptic pregnancy if you’re on birth control?

Yes, it’s possible to have a cryptic pregnancy while on birth control. Birth control is not 100% effective at preventing pregnancy, so it’s important to use additional forms of protection if you’re sexually active and don’t want to become pregnant.

3. Can stress cause cryptic pregnancy?

There is no evidence to suggest that stress can cause cryptic pregnancy. However, stress can affect menstrual cycles and make it difficult to detect a pregnancy.

4. Can a cryptic pregnancy be dangerous?

Yes, a cryptic pregnancy can be dangerous if the woman does not seek prenatal care. Without prenatal care, the risk of complications during labor and delivery increases.

5. How long can a cryptic pregnancy last?

A cryptic pregnancy can last the same amount of time as a regular pregnancy, which is approximately 40 weeks. However, because the pregnancy is often not detected until later in the pregnancy, women with cryptic pregnancies may not have as much time to prepare for the birth of their child.