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Abortion/Positive pregnancy test after abortion

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Expert: - 9/7/2009


Question
Pat,

I had an abortion over a month ago and I still haven't had a cycle.  I took a pregnancy test today and it was positive. I admit I did have unprotected sex once since then. I'm not sure if its my hormones or if I really pregnant. I understand that I can go and have blood work done and repeat it a week later. What I don't understand is how long does your body think you are pregnant after abortions? I've been taking birth control pills since the day after my procedure.

Answer
Hi, Kristin,

I can't tell you whether or not it's leftover hormones or a new pregnancy. The only way to tell is to take more tests, and watch for other symptoms.

Please be aware that there is no such thing as "protection". Condoms don't work, and neither does pulling out. Birth control pills are not totally reliable, either. In fact, they don't work if you are taking antibiotics.

It is not uncommon for pregnancy hormones to persist, or a woman not to have a period for awhile. What happens to each individual woman is anybody's guess; we all react differently.

Abortion is dangerous, so I imagine you want to avoid ever facing the question again. Please take care of yourself. And let me know what you find out. If you have any needs, do not hesitate to let me know that as well.

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Pat G

Expertise

I can help women with the consideration of their decision, and with resources, and I can share my own experiences as the mother of seven and grandmother of eleven. My approach is to show love and concern, and help women work through the issues, emotional, spiritual, practical. I also help women deal with boyfriend and family issues. I am not a doctor, but I have done extensive medical research, so I may be able to help with information. I am female. When you write, if you are or were pregnant, please tell me how far along you were or are, and if you have had an abortion, please tell me what kind. Thank you.

Experience

I have been working with women who are considering abortion for several years. I also work with women who have had abortions. Our family has also experienced adoption, so I can talk about that as well.

Education/Credentials
I am mostly self-taught. I also studied midwifery for awhile. I have spent years doing research on this topic. In fact, I have been doing research and working in this area since the early 1970's. I have been helping women online for a few years, under the guidance of a woman who was formally training in counseling.

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