What is a chemical pregnancy? What happens next? Can I still get pregnant?
A chemical pregnancy is an early pregnancy loss that occurs shortly after implantation and they may account for 50-75% of all miscarriages. Chemical pregnancies take place before ultrasounds can detect a fetus, but not too early for a pregnancy test to detect levels of hCG.
Experiencing a miscarriage just one or two weeks after a positive pregnancy test can be devastating. For women who do have symptoms, these may include menstrual-like stomach cramping and vaginal bleeding within days of getting a positive pregnancy result.
It’s important to note that bleeding after a ＋ pregnancy test doesn’t always mean a chemical pregnancy. Bleeding is also common during implantation, which is when the embryo attaches to the uterus. This process can rupture or damage tiny blood vessels along the uterine lining, resulting in the release of blood. Spotting often appears as a pinkish or brownish discharge. This is normal 10 to 14 days after conception.
A chemical pregnancy also doesn’t always mean you’re unable to conceive and have a healthy delivery. While there’s no specific treatment for this type of miscarriage, there are options to help you conceive. If you’ve had more than one chemical pregnancy, it is essential to investigate more…so that we can run tests to diagnose possible underlying causes. If can treat the cause, this can potentially reduce the risk of another chemical pregnancy.
For example, if an early miscarriage was caused by an undiagnosed infection, taking antibiotics to clear the infection can improve your chances of conceiving. If the miscarriage was due to problems with your uterus, you may need a surgical procedure called a hysteroscopy to correct the issue.
Baby dust to all!
Dr C
