Pregnancy After Abortion: Risks and Concerns - Expert Advice

Question
i just had an abortion october 17 i was 6 weeks and one day pregnant. my husband and i got right back into bussiness a week later. active from oct 24 to nov 04 but no more after that. i never went back for the follow up but i saw the doctor this monday nov 26 and my test came back positive 1-2 to 2-3 weeks pregnant to be more accurate 166.0 HCG QN. Can i really be pregnant again or could the abortion have gone wrong? if i am i am going to keep this one but will my past abortion have any negative effects on my new unborn baby?

Answer
Dear Kristin,
A bHCG of 166 could still be remaining hormones from the October pregnancy, or it could be a very early new pregnancy.  A lingering hormone level is completely normal and common - even up to two months. They will have to repeat the blood test to be sure either way.  It cannot be a continuing pregnancy - the numbers would be in the ten thousands at this stage.  
If it is a new pregnancy, there are no concerns for the pregnancy if you decide to keep it; and there are no health concerns for you if you decide to end it.
I hope this is helpful,
Doctor Joan