Postpartum Period Irregularities: Understanding Potential Pregnancy After Tubal Ligation

Question
My baby was born 7/2/07.  I had a tubal ligation 7/3/07.  My husband and I resumed having sex 2 weeks after birth.  I am at 8 1/2 weeks postpartum and starting to worry.  As with both of my unplanned pregnancies, I felt like my period was about to start - only to find out I was pregnant.  My husband is worried and is starting to make me worried.  Is there even a chance I could be pregnant?

Answer
While there is a small chance that your tubal ligation failed to take, it is very, very unlikely that you are pregnant.  At only 8 1/2 weeks postpartum, you are still within the range of normal for not having your period yet, even if you are not breastfeeding.  Be patient, and if you are truly concerned about pregnancy, go ahead and take a home pregnancy test to set your mind at ease.