Did you get your period a few days after a positive pregnancy test? Is it a 'chemical pregnancy'?

You've been waiting for a long time, and you can clearly see both lines on the pregnancy test. That joy is indescribable. But in a few days, maybe a week, your period will start. Along with the sadness, regret, and disappointment that you feel, the question "What happened to me?" comes to mind. This is not unique to you. Many people have experienced this. In medicine, we call this condition a 'chemical pregnancy'. Let's talk about it simply today so that all the questions you have in mind will disappear.

What is this 'chemical pregnancy'?

Simply put, a 'chemical pregnancy' is a miscarriage that occurs very early, within five weeks of a confirmed pregnancy. This happens so quickly that even an ultrasound scan cannot see anything inside the uterus.

Here's what happens: A sperm and an egg join to form an embryo, which implants itself in the wall of your uterus. Once implanted, your body starts producing a hormone called HCG (Human Chorionic Gonadotropin) . You can tell by taking a home pregnancy test or by taking a blood test to see if you're pregnant. This hormone is called HCG.

But in a 'chemical pregnancy', the embryo that has implanted in the uterus suddenly stops developing. But since your body is still producing the hormone HCG, the pregnancy test will be positive. After the embryo stops developing, the HCG level will gradually decrease, and then you will have your period.

The difference between 'chemical' and 'clinical' pregnancies

Now you might be wondering why it's called 'chemical'. That name is a bit confusing to hear. But that name is not a name for your experience. The reason is that the only evidence we have of this pregnancy is the hormone HCG, which is a chemical. This name was coined because there is nothing to see on a scan, and it can only be confirmed by hormones (chemicals).

On the other hand, a 'clinical pregnancy' is when the HCG hormone levels continue to rise, and an ultrasound scan can detect the baby's heartbeat or the gestational sac.

So this isn't a real pregnancy?

This is a very sensitive issue. Medically speaking, a pregnancy has begun when an embryo has formed and implanted in the uterus. But it didn't go any further.

For some, this may feel like a normal late period. For others, especially those expecting a baby, it may feel like a huge loss. However you feel, there's nothing wrong with it.

Chemical pregnancy is much more common than you might think. Some studies suggest that up to 25% of all pregnancies end in miscarriage within the first 20 weeks, and 80% of those occur in this early stage. Many women don't even know they're pregnant, sometimes thinking it's just a late period.

What are the symptoms of a 'chemical pregnancy'?

There are several symptoms that can help you recognize this condition. You may have experienced one or more of these.

Why is this happening? What are the reasons for this?

This is the biggest question that many people have. They wonder, "Is this my fault?"

The number one thing to remember is that this is not your fault.

Most of the time, that is, about 99% of the time, the cause of a 'chemical pregnancy' is a genetic defect (chromosomal abnormality) in the developing embryo. Simply put, there is a problem with the embryo's DNA , which prevents it from developing properly. When the body recognizes this, it naturally terminates the pregnancy. It is a protective measure taken by the body to produce a healthy baby.

In addition to this main reason, in some cases other factors may also be involved.

• You are over 35 years old.
• There is some abnormality in the shape of the uterus.
• Imbalances in the body's hormone levels.
• Conditions such as uncontrolled diabetes, thyroid disorders, or PCOS (Polycystic Ovary Syndrome).
• Some sexually transmitted infections (STIs).

If you think you have any of these risk factors, it's best to talk to your doctor.

What should you do when something like this happens?

There is no specific treatment for this, as it is something that happens naturally and will go away. But there are things you can do and things to keep in mind after this experience.

1. Let your emotions flow.

If you feel sad, if you want to cry, do it. Talk about it with your partner, with a friend you trust. It may feel like you're relieved, but that's okay. Not everyone reacts to this in the same way. Whatever your feelings are, they're valid.

2. Don't be afraid of the future.

This is the most important thing. Having a chemical pregnancy does not mean that you cannot have a healthy baby again. In fact, many people who have had an early miscarriage like this go on to have healthy babies without any problems. This proves that you can get pregnant.

3. When will you try again?

Most of the time, after a chemical pregnancy, your body will quickly return to normal. You may be able to ovulate again in the next menstrual cycle, which is about two weeks. But before you panic, it's best to make up your mind and, if necessary, talk to your doctor for advice.

4. Maintain a healthy lifestyle

If you are trying to get pregnant again, it is very important to follow a healthy lifestyle.

• Eat nutritious foods: Include vegetables, fruits, legumes, and whole grains in your diet.
• Take folic acid: If you are expecting a baby, it is a must to take folic acid. Ask your doctor about this.
• Maintain a healthy weight: Being overweight or underweight can affect fertility.
• Exercise: Do simple exercise like walking for at least 30 minutes every day.
• Avoid smoking and alcohol.