Positive Pregnancy Test After Miscarriage: What Could It Mean?

Question
Hello, I have recently had a miscarraige. 6 weeks ago the embryo died and 4 weeks ago my body cleaned itself out with no need for a D&C. I have been fretting about my period not returning as I was very regular (27-28 days). To ease my mind I thought I would take a hpt, however it did not ease my mind. I am now even more concerned. The test was positive. It read positive instantly. Could this be a true positive or residule hormones from my last pregnancy? I have been given Dr. instruction to wait at l least one full cycle before trying again. I am very concerned that if it is a true positive that I could experience complications because we have not "followed" Dr.s orders even though it would be an accident. Any advice would be wonderful. Thank you and have a great night!

Answer
Hi Heather!

At this point Heather, its unlikely you would get a pregnancy positive result, unless you are indeed pregnant. Now, it usually takes about 4-6 weeks for the pregnancy hormone to diminish after a miscarriage, or giving birth. But you said that your test came back instantly positive, and this is an indicator that the HCG level in your urine is quite prominate, and not weak.

The reason why your doctor asked you to wait one cycle before trying to concieve again, is to allow your hormones to balance somewhat, and to return to their natural pre-prenancy state. Also, its advised to wait to allow your body to heal from the miscarriage. It can be tramatic to your body, when it miscarries, so waiting decreases your chances of infection, and so on.

As for any direct complications to your pregnancy, or yourself, its very minimal. As I said, the advise given to you, was strictly to let your body mend, but it will not cause birth defects, or anything of the sort. So I hope knowing that, will now make you breath easier. I am positive that if you confirmed pregnant, that you will have absolutely no issues at all. Infact, you would have had issues by now, if they were going to arise. So it seems you recovered just fine.

I would definately make a doctor appointment and have your pregnancy diagnosed. I am totally inclined to say, that you are indeed pregnant :)

Hope this is of some help, and please let me know your results when you get them!

Thanks for writing!

-Kristy