Expert: Cynthia Bedell - 2/15/2008

Question
QUESTION: I was a sgt in the army for 6 years.  I got out on a honorable just end of two tours.  I want to join back in the army, when I went to meps I tested positive on a pregnancy test. It was an ectopic pregnancy and I had a surgery in an army hospital to have it removed. How long now that I am not pregnant do I have to wait to go back to MEPS. My recruiter seems confused on what to do. I tested positive Nov 1 had surgery Nov 24.  I am not pregnant but what is the regulation on how long I have to wait.

ANSWER: Dear Jennifer --

You do not have to wait.  You will not test positive anymore, as long as you have been using adequate birth control.

Does your recruiter still want to work with you, or is it time to find a new recruiter?

Good luck to you.

---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: Is there a certain amount of time you have to wait to go back to Meps. I have a doctor note saying I am not pregnant, from Jan 3.  And it is February 15 and I still can not get a date to MEPS. My recruiter says there might be a 3 month or 6 month wait that MEPS requires before going back. Do you know what that requirment is?

Answer
Dear Jennifer --

I do not know of a requirement for a waiting period before you return to MEPS for a new physical.  It could well be 90 days to ensure new recruits have a chance before returning candidates.  I know it always took me 120 days just to get an appointment when I had cadets that needed specialty physicals for Ranger or Airborne school.  The delay may simply be a scheduling issue.

Good luck to you.