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Childbirth/Could I be pregnant again?

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Expert: - 3/24/2009


Question
I just gave birth about 4 months ago and since then, I have had two normal periods. It's been about a month now since I've had a period and I had a positive pregnancy test yesterday morning. Could I still have hcg from my recent birth or could I be pregnant again? I've had all the symptoms I had with my first, except morning sickness.

Answer
Ashley,


Well, congratulations~


If you'd had two normal periods, it's unlikely that the positive result was from residual HCG levels.  Once your cycle resumes, it's your body's way of telling you it's ready to sustain another pregnancy (whether you're mentally ready or not).  HCG levels usually drop by 4-6 weeks postpartum.

It could be a slim possibility that it's leftover HCG, but it's much more likely that you are indeed pregnant, especially if you haven't been faithfully adhering to an effective birth control program.


You can wait a week (or 3 days if you can't wait) and test again.  If the line is darker, then here comes baby, ready or not;-)


Best,
Catherine

Childbirth

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Catherine Beier MS CBE

Expertise

I can provide evidence-based information and current research findings concerning childbirth and pregnancy. My specializations include natural childbirth, pregnancy and birth interventions, fetal positioning, labor induction, choosing a care provider, midwives, homebirth, unassisted birth, natural pain relief, medications in pregnancy and birth, informed consent, understanding the risks and benefits of childbirth choices, doulas, waterbirth, childbirth methods, childbirth education classes, cesarean section, and VBAC.

Experience

I have been a childbirth educator, mother, author, public speaker, researcher, and birth advocate for the past 9 years. I am also the author of Giving Birth Naturally, a site dedicated to natural childbirth and pregnancy information. I publish evidence-based articles on pregnancy, childbirth, newborn care, and post-partum care. I'm also a mother of three children, two daughters and one son all born naturally. To learn more about what normal birth looks like, view the natural childbirth video of my son being born at home unassisted.

Publications
My book, Birth Outside the Box, was published in 2007.

Education/Credentials
I hold a Master's degree in communication disorders with an emphasis in child development. I am also an independent childbirth educator.

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