Many times, women test positive on a pregnancy test only to get a negative result a few weeks later. If this also happens to you, it can be an indication of a chemical pregnancy, which is a very common type of very early pregnancy loss. Sometimes, this early loss often goes unnoticed, as it ends before it can be seen in an ultrasound and be mistaken for a normal menstrual period. 

If you are in Singapore or trying to become a parent, Cryoviva Singapore encourages you to stay informed about such situations. Because awareness about chemical pregnancy will help you navigate your pregnancy journey with clarity and confidence.

What is a Chemical Pregnancy

A chemical pregnancy (or biochemical pregnancy) is a very early miscarriage that occurs within the first 5 weeks of pregnancy, before the pregnancy can even be seen on an ultrasound.

What Happens in Biochemical Pregnancy

An embryo forms and implants in the uterine lining; however, it then stops developing. This leads to very early miscarriage. Sometimes, many women don’t realize they’ve miscarried.

How Common is a Chemical Pregnancy

Biochemical pregnancies make up anywhere from 50 to 75% of all miscarriages; however, it is not an indication that you can’t get pregnant.

Should I Be Worried if I Had a Chemical Pregnancy?

There is nothing to worry about, because it is a very common type of pregnancy and does not require any treatment. Most women achieve healthy pregnancies after a chemical pregnancy.

How Do I Know It’s a Chemical Pregnancy? The Signs & Symptoms

The biochemical pregnancy will only be confirmed by your healthcare professional in Singapore. Here are some possible signs and symptoms that can indicate its possibility.

• Positive Pregnancy Test Followed by a Negative Result a Few Weeks Later

Home pregnancy test kits detect low human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) from early implantation; however, levels drop quickly when the embryo stops developing. That’s why the test may show positive in the beginning but negative as HCG levels fall. You might not notice the usual signs of early pregnancy.

• Bleeding Begins as Spotting and Then Gets Really Heavy, With Blood Clots

Light bleeding happens as the uterine lining sheds after the embryo fails to grow, similar to implantation bleeding. Then the bleeding can get heavier, similar to dark red and jelly-like.

• Heavier or Late Period

Extra tissue from a biochemical pregnancy or brief implantation causes more flow or delays the cycle by a week because of disrupted hormone signals.

• Mild to Severe Menstrual Cramps

The uterus contracts to remove the remnants, triggered by hormonal shifts like dropping progesterone. This can feel like intensified menstrual pain.

• Fading Early Pregnancy Symptoms

The early pregnancy signs, such as sore breasts or tiredness, come and go fast as the hCG drops when the embryo stops growing.

Also Read: What Is a Cryptic Pregnancy? Causes, Signs & Risk

What are the Causes of Chemical Pregnancy?

It is unclear exactly why an embryo stops developing during a chemical pregnancy. Some of the possible explanations can be:

1. An incorrect number of chromosomes in the embryo
2. Poor quality of the embryo
3. Insufficient levels of hormones
4. Presence of uterine fibroids
5. Other ongoing health conditions like thyroid disorders, autoimmune diseases
6. Lifestyle factors

How to Confirm a Chemical Pregnancy

Your doctor may confirm it through:

1. Follow-up blood tests to measure HCG
2. Subsequent negative pregnancy test
3. Ultrasound
4. Asking you about the symptoms

How to Prevent a Biochemical Pregnancy?

While it cannot be fully prevented, you can take the following measures:

1. Take prescribed prenatal vitamins
2. Maintain a healthy weight
3. Exercise regularly
4. Consume a balanced diet
5. Limit caffeine intake
6. Manage chronic conditions

Conclusion

The bleeding from a biological pregnancy can be different for every woman, and the passing of the tissue can take several days or a few weeks. 

Some women experience a chemical pregnancy right around the time when they’re supposed to get their monthly cycle. That’s why they can mistake it for a menstrual period. However, if you have noticed a positive pregnancy test followed by a negative one a few weeks later, it is important to consult the doctor for the right support.

What to Do if You Suspect a Chemical Pregnancy

Most don’t usually require medical intervention or treatment, as it resolves on its own. Fortunately, many people who have one pregnancy that ends early go on to have healthy pregnancies in the future.

If you suspect a biological pregnancy, seek your doctor for:

• Emotional support
• Monitoring bleeding
• Addressing repeated loss
• Future conception
• Addressing severe symptoms

Want to give your baby extra protection for the future from possible health conditions? Consider preserving their cord blood stem cells. Reach out to Cryoviva Singapore to learn how.

Disclaimer:
The information provided in this blog is for general educational and awareness purposes only and should not be considered medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Every individual’s health situation is unique, and early pregnancy symptoms or concerns should be evaluated by a qualified healthcare professional.