Chemical pregnancy - anyone experienced this?

[Gingernut81]

Hi,

Feeling a little sorry for myself as it would seem I've had a chemical pregnancy. I did three pregnancy tests a couple of weeks ago as had pregnancy symptoms & was going to glastonbury so wanted to know if could drink whilst there. All 3 tests came back with a bfp. Today I started bleeding & have had cramps - would have been 5weeks + 5 so not very far on I know. Rang my doctors who advised me to go to a & e where I felt like I was being accused of faking it by the doctor. She said the test they'd done was completely negative, asked if I was sure I was pregnant ('did you actually test?'), asked if I would like a blood test doing & then left!
I know I wasn't far on but I'm really upset by her attitude & also the lack of information. Since getting home & googling symptoms it would seem I've had a chemical pregnancy, I'm just confused as I still have pregnancy symptoms - tiredness, horrendous skin & boobs that have grown enough to need new bras & are incredibly sensitive.

I just wondered if anyone had had any similar experiences? Is this normal?

[squizita]

Hi
Sorry for your loss.
Sadly you have not had just a chemical pregnancy: you've had a miscarriage. A chemical pregnancy is where the sperm and egg meet but never bed in and start changing your lining into a placenta: after that happens, even at 5 weeks, your body will have started to load up with more blood etc' so you aught to be looked after better for your loss.
Although emotionally the same, there are some important medical differences as even at 5+, there are medical risks and your hospital/GP should abide by the NICE guidelines:

1. Do get a blood test. If A&E won't refer you, see your GP for a referral to your EPU and explain: mention the pain and slight risk of ectopic (highly unlikely but all early pregnancy bleeding must be checked out). Sadly now you've had the loss you need to make sure it really is all over.
   
2. If possible ask for a scan.
   
3. Ask for advice for aftercare after miscarriage: your treatment has been disgusting and when you feel better I would complain personally. I would make a note of the A&E doctors name (and yes I have done this myself after similar appalling care).
   
   For the bleeding use pads not tampons and go back to A&E should you get through more than 1 towel per 2 hours. Also return if you get any 1 sided pain or if your HCG rises again (i.e. after a week or 2 you do another test and it is positive).
   
   The symptoms may take a few days to subside. If they don't after a week or so, again return to your doctor.
   
   miscarriageassociation.org.uk/ this charity should be able to support you with both factual answers and an emotional support helpline should you need it.
   
   

[Gingernut81]

Hi Squizita,

Thanks for the information and advice, I can't help but feel I've been let down either so a complaint will definitely be winging it's way to the hospital.

[Jodie1982]

I had a chemical pregnancy last yr, had a positive test in A+E as I was in pain from a Kidney Infection, I was very surprised as I wasn't due my period for another week orso, wasn't even late, but I actually ended up getting my period when it was due, I wouldn't of even known about the pregnancy if I hadn't of been in A+E. Huni I think you've had a proper miscarriage, I'm so sorry for ur loss. Pls try n get some proper care and advice, I've suffered 2 MC's myself and it's a tough thing to go through. Love Jo x

[polkadotdelight]

I echo what Squizita said. Im really sorry and hope you are ok.