A chemicalpregnancyoccurs when apregnancy testshows a positive result, but the pregnancy does not progress.
A chemical pregnancy results in an earlymiscarriagejust after the embryo implants into the uterine wall.
This may occur around five weeks of pregnancy.
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This article discusses the causes and symptoms of a chemical pregnancy and when it is safe to retry.
ArtistGNDphotography / Getty Images
Causes: Why Does Chemical Pregnancy Happen?
Chemical pregnancies are common.
It is estimated that up to 25% of pregnancies end before a person knows that they are pregnant.
In most cases, early pregnancy loss is not your fault.
It is not because of everyday activities such as working, exercising, feeling stressed, or having sex.
It is often a random event without a known cause.
Chromosomal abnormalities cause most early pregnancy losses.
The chromosomes carry genes that tell the cells how to develop.
If an embryo has an abnormal number of chromosomes, the risk of early pregnancy loss goes up.
A pregnancy test can confirm a pregnancy based on the level of HCG in the urine or blood.
High-sensitivity pregnancy tests can detect a chemical pregnancy and will produce a positive result.
Some pregnancy tests can detect a pregnancy three to four days before yourmissed period.
Once the pregnancy ends, a home pregnancy test will produce a negative result.
There is a surge of HCG levels once an embryo implants into the uterus.
Once a pregnancy ends, HCG levels return to normal levels.
A chemical pregnancy cannot be detected with an ultrasound exam.
They may also occur around the same time in your cycle.
If you believe that you could be pregnant, consider waiting until your missed period before taking a test.
This will prevent you from receiving a positive pregnancy test only to learn that the pregnancy ended shortly after.
People undergoing assisted reproductive technology (ART) may be more likely to experience a chemical pregnancy.
Talk with a healthcare provider about your feelings, and consider meeting with a therapist or support group.
Coping and Self-Care
There is no right or wrong way to feel after a chemical pregnancy.
You may experience feelings of sadness and grief.
The physical healing time is relatively quick, but you may need more emotional healing time.
Avoid shaming yourself or feeling like it is time to get over it.
If you are concerned about your mood, talk with your healthcare provider.
There are therapists and support groups available for people going through ART or early pregnancy loss.
Effect on Future Fertility
Fortunately, a chemical pregnancy does not impact your futurefertility.
When to See a Healthcare Provider
There is usually no treatment needed after a chemical pregnancy.
Many people are not aware that they have experienced one.
If yourmenstrual period feels heavieror more painful than usual, consider contacting your healthcare provider.
Many people experience a chemical pregnancy without knowing it.
This may be more common in people going through fertility treatments like ART.
A chemical pregnancy results in the loss of an embryo.
It often occurs before a persons missed period, around five weeks' gestation.
Many people do not experience symptoms, but possible symptoms include abdominal cramping and vaginal bleeding or spotting.
A chemical pregnancy does not affect your ability to become pregnant in the future.
Talk with a healthcare provider about the next steps and when to have another go once ready.
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