QuestionI had a miscarriage in Jan. 2009 and went through numerous blood test. My test numbers went down each time, and the nurse advice me that I was no longer pregnant. I have also taken numerous pregnancy test at home, which have came out negative every time. My only concern is that I'm still having pregnancy symptoms. My abdomen and breast are still growing as if I'm pregnant. I have also been experiencing fluttering in my stomach. I have also went to the doctor and they advised told me it's all in my head. My menstrual cycle has been un-normal and very light, not like before. I know what it feels like to be pregnant, due to I have two kids 7 and 5yrs. I just don't understand what is really going on.
AnswerHello Heather.
It's good to hear that the medical service is as sympathetic as usual!
I'm sorry to hear of your loss. When they do the blood tests, it measures the hCG in your blood stream. hCG is a pregnancy hormone which is released during pregnancy. If the levels dropped to 0, then there's no doubt that you were no longer pregnant. Blood tests are the most reliable way of testing for pregnancy & monitering pregnancy loss. If you have recently taken pregnancy tests then it's unlikely you are pregnant.
Your symptoms sound hormonal in nature & I believe that they should be investigated. It's not unusual to have different periods after a miscarriage, but along with your other symptoms I think this issue needs to be addressed.
The fluttering you describe could be wind or digestion movements. I smile as I write this as when I first felt my son kick, others said 'Oh, it's wind!'. I know how annoying this can sound, since having my son I have been diagnosed with IBS and it does feel very similar to kicks. I was convinced that I was pregnant too because of the similarity in sensation.
I think the way forward is to go and see another doctor. Explain the symptoms you have and about the miscarriage, insist that you are at least given a physical exam to see if the tummy swelling can be explained. I think doctors are too quick to judge and blame the symptoms on the Mother not coping well with the loss & saying it's all in her mind. If you do feel you'd benefit from some additional support then don't be afraid to ask for it, but don't let this detract from the obvious physical symptoms you are having.
I hope this has helped. Do come back if you have any further queries.
Kindest Regards
Sarah
