What is a Chemical Pregnancy?

A chemical pregnancy occurs when a fertilized egg does not implant into the uterine wall.  If a pregnancy test is taken just at the right time it will be positive, however, when a repeat test is taken several days later it will be negative.  A chemical pregnancy leaves the couple to cope with the difficult news of thinking they were pregnant when in reality they are miscarrying.  However, majority of women who have a chemical pregnancy never know they are pregnant before they miscarry and begin what they think is their normal menstrual cycle.

 

Signs and Symptoms of a Chemical Pregnancy

Due to the fact that in a chemical pregnancy a fertilized egg does not implant into the uterus most women do not experience signs and symptoms of pregnancy (ie. tender breast, nausea, and / or fatigue).  There are a few reports of women who have been pregnant in the past who state that they felt pregnant with their chemical pregnancy.  There may be mild abdominal cramping as well as mild spotting just prior to what most women think is their normal menstrual cycle.  The menstrual cycle usually begins on time or a few days late.  To learn more Go to Sign and Symptom of Miscarriage.

 

Causes of a Chemical Pregnancy

The true cause of a chemical pregnancy is not known, however, most believe it is due to abnormal chromosomes within the fetus.  These chromosomal abnormalities can be due to several factors including poor quality sperm or egg, abnormal cell division of the fetus, and / or genetic abnormalities of either mother or father.  It is thought that approximately 50 - 60% of first trimester miscarriages are due to some type of chromosomal abnormality.  Other causes of a chemical pregnancy are thought to be related to infection (ie. Chlamydia, Cytomegalovirus, Genital herpes, Syphilis, Toxoplasmosis, and Rubella), abnormal uterine anatomy (ie. unicornate uterus or septate uterus), abnormal hormonal levels within the mother (ie. low progesterone), and systemic illnesses (ie. untreated thyroid disease).  To learn more Go to Cause of Miscarriage.

 

Treatment of a Chemical Pregnancy

There is no specific treatment that is required for a chemical pregnancy.  The most important follow-up test is to ensure that the women's hCG level has returned to non-detectable levels after a chemical pregnancy.  There is no impact on future pregnancies and the majority of women become pregnant and deliver without difficulty.  The most difficult aspect of a chemical pregnancy is coping with the excitement of being pregnant and then the realization that you are now coping with a miscarriage.  If a couple has experienced several early miscarriages (2-3) there is genetic counseling available through their physician.  To learn more Go to Treatment of Miscarriage.

It is recommended that a couple wait at least one regular menstrual cycle before trying to conceive again after a chemical pregnancy.