Can you be sure you're pregnant if your period hasn't come?

Patient's question:

Gender: Female
Age: 24
My last menstrual period was on October 6th, and it has not arrived by November 12th. Usually, it is delayed by 6 days. I have just given birth 8 months ago, and my milk supply is still quite good. Am I pregnant? What should I do?

Doctor's answer:

Now the pregnancy cannot be completely ruled out as there is no confirmation yet, because the delay in menstruation is still relatively short. It is necessary to wait until one week after the menstrual period to test with early pregnancy test strips to confirm whether or not you are pregnant. Alternatively, you can visit the hospital now to check blood hCG to confirm pregnancy. A delayed menstrual period could also be due to factors such as fatigue, poor rest, stress, anxiety, environmental changes, gynecological inflammation, or endocrine disorders, all of which could lead to a delayed period. It is recommended to visit the hospital for a check-up of the six sex hormones and an ultrasound to identify the cause and then receive targeted treatment.