Post-D&C Cycle Changes & Early Pregnancy Symptoms: What to Expect

Question
Hi, my husband and I tried to conceive for 6 months last year and were successful with a natural IUI but miscarried. I've always had regular periods but after my D&C my cycle changed dramatically - much heavier periods, etc. We just started trying again, and I'm 5 dpo and have sore breasts which I havent had since my periods before the D&C. From what I understand you can't really experience pregnancy symptoms prior to implantation, so is it possible that semen in my body can also change my cycle or increase Progesterone?  I know its a silly question, but for that last 6 months I havent had sore breasts at all, and before my D&C I ALWAYS had very sore breasts prior to my period. What causes these cycle changes after a D&C and can semen being in your body cause changes too?
Thanks!

Answer
Hi Julie,

I'm very sorry to hear of your miscarriage.  I have also had a miscarriage and I know that alone can cause some hormonal changes in your body that can take a few months to even out.  Depending on how far along you were, it may take some time for your hormone levels to get back to normal so that you can ovulate.  These changes can cause your symptoms, but I have not heard that semen in your body can have any effect on your cycle or progesterone levels.  I have also heard from many other women, and myself included, that sometimes you will experience pregnancy-like symptoms such as sore breasts prior to finding our you're pregnant, even if you are not, for psychological reasons.  This psychosomatic response is sometimes related to your own desire to be pregnant.  I know this sounds crazy, but I know it to be true firsthand.  Usually implantation occurs 6-10 days post ovulation but it is possible that it happened earlier for you and you may be pregnant.  Try not to worry and test in another week to see if you are.  Best of luck and definately call your doctor if you are still concerned.

Sarah