QuestionI recently had a D & C (5 weeks ago) due to a m/c in January. I spotted approximately two weeks after the d & c, when my period was due, but did not have a normal period. I was wondering if there was any way that you can get pregnant without having a period after a d & c? I was traking my ovulation, a saw an increase in my LH approximately 10 days ago, but it was not as dark as it normally is. Does the body begin to produce HCG once the egg has implanted in the uterus or at conception?
AnswerDear Joyce,
hCG is made by cells that form the placenta, which nourishes the egg after it has been fertilized and becomes attached to the uterine wall. Usually, hCG can first be detected by a normal blood test about 11 days after conception and about 14 days after conception by a urine test.
However, keep in mind that hCG levels do not immediately go back to non-pregnant levels after a miscarriage/D&C. Most women can expect their levels to return to a non-pregnant range about 4-6 weeks after a pregnancy loss has occurred. This can vary by how the loss occurred (spontaneous miscarriage, D&C, abortion, natural delivery) and how high the levels were at the time of the loss. Some doctors will continue to test hCG levels after a pregnancy loss to ensure they return back to <5.0.
As far as the possibility of pregnancy without a period, it would be possible. Sometimes ovulation can occur without a period having occurred after a miscarriage, D&C, or delivery and if unprotected sex occurs at just the right time, the potential is there.
I hope this has helped you and answered your question. I wish you well.
Brenda
