so I think I had a chemical pregnancy

DH and I started TTC (no OPK's, no temping, etc) and I was 4 days late. I tested with a digital and it came up BFP. We were so excited. I purposely didn't test until I was late because I didn't want to be disappointed.

The next night TMI, I had bright red blood and then it stopped. The next morning I woke up and AF was in full force with extra cramping I'm sad but I know we'll keep on trying, maybe just take a few months break.

At the risk of sounding silly....can someone explain what a chemical pregnancy is to me? Why/how does this happen? TIA

Re: so I think I had a chemical pregnancy

OKay I found this article that might be of some help. I had one before before I got my BFP. HTH

What Is A Chemical Pregnancy?
A chemical pregnancy is the clinical term used for a very early miscarriage. In many cases, the positive pregnancy test was achieved before the woman’s period was due but a miscarrige occured before a heartbeat was able to be seen on an ultrasound.

With the ultra sensitive pregnancy tests on the market today, it is easier than ever to get a positive result 3 or 4 days before your period is due. It is wonderful for those who NEED to know, but does have it’s down side. Early testing shows chemical pregnancies which would not have been detected had the woman waited for her period to arrive.

Chemical pregnancies are unfortunately very common. 50 to 60% of first pregnancies end in miscarriage very early in pregnancy. Most occur without the woman even knowing that she was pregnant.

What Causes a Chemical Pregnancy
Most chemical pregnancies are due to chromosomal problems in the developing fetus. Other possible causes are inadequate uterine lining, uterine abnormalities both congenital or acquired like fibroids, low hormone levels, luteal phase defect or certain infections.

How can I Prevent Chemical Pregnancies
Most chemical pregnancies can not be prevented. If you have recurring chemical pregnancies, your doctor should be able to investigate and help you formulate a treatment which is best for you. Potential treatments include vitamin B6 (at least 50mg a day), progesterone cream, and baby asprin. Be sure to discuss potential treatments with your doctor.

If infection is the cause, antibiotics prescribed by your Doctor can help.

Re: so I think I had a chemical pregnancy

So sorry about this!! A chemical pregnancy is when an egg is fertilized but does not successfully implant or stay implanted in your uterus. I don't know why this happens.

Re: so I think I had a chemical pregnancy

I am so sorry!

Re: so I think I had a chemical pregnancy

Thanks for your quick replies ladies That article was really helpful.

I'm just so frustrated because I purposely waited until I was 3 days late to buy a test

I keep wondering if it's because I started doing some fall cleaning and lifted some pretty heavy things. Then I think I'm being irrational

Message edited 9/26/2008 12:47:29 PM.

Re: so I think I had a chemical pregnancy

Its nothing you did

Re: so I think I had a chemical pregnancy

I'm so very sorry

Re: so I think I had a chemical pregnancy

Same thing happened to me last month, and I didn't get a BFP until I was late, too. So frustrating!

Re: so I think I had a chemical pregnancy

Re: so I think I had a chemical pregnancy

Its nothing you did. Most of the time a chemical pregnancy is caused by a chromosomal abnormality. When the egg and sperm came together, something went wrong. Its a very delicate process, creating a new human life, and there is so much room for error. It makes you realize what a true miracle having a baby really is.

Re: so I think I had a chemical pregnancy

i'm so sorry

Re: so I think I had a chemical pregnancy

I'm sorry.