Post-Abortion Pregnancy: Understanding Faint Positive Tests & Hormone Interference

Question
I had unprotected sex 3 weeks after my abortion and took a pregnancy test a week and a half later before ever receiving my first period. the result was positive but one line was very faint. Could i be pregnant that soon or could it be positive because of pregnancy hormones?

Answer
Dear Katy,
You are correct that urine pregnancy tests remain positive for weeks to months after an abortion, so it can be difficult to know whether you are pregnant again.  The good news is that a faint positive pregnancy test should mean that the pregnancy is over, and it would be unlikely that you are pregnant again.  The best way to know for sure is to check another pregnancy test, one week after you took the last one.  If it is the same or lighter, you are fine.  If it is darker, it could indicate a new pregnancy.  
There is more information on pregnancy tests after abortion at http://www.earlyabortionoptions.com  Go to the section on Making your Decision, and then Aftercare.

I hope this is helpful,
Doctor Joan
http://www.earlyabortionoptions.com
New York City