A chemical pregnancy after a surrogate embryo transfer occurs when an embryo implants in the uterus but stops developing shortly afterward.
Although it can be disappointing for you and the intended parents, it's important to recognize that a chemical pregnancy indicates that implantation did occur, which is a positive sign for future attempts.
Contact us online today to get more free information now about embryo transfer, chemical pregnancies and more. We’d love to help you out in whatever way we can.
Understanding this experience can help you process your emotions and prepare for the next steps in the journey. We’ll discuss what a chemical pregnancy is, why it occurs, and its impact on the surrogacy journey.
The information provided in this article is for educational purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider.
What Is a Chemical Pregnancy after an Embryo Transfer?
A chemical pregnancy is an early miscarriage that occurs shortly after implantation and is often identified through a positive pregnancy test followed by a period. It typically occurs when a fertilized egg implants in the uterus but fails to develop properly.
This results in a positive pregnancy test due to the production of the pregnancy hormone hCG, but the pregnancy is lost. The entire process can be quite early, often within the first few weeks of pregnancy.
When you receive a positive result on your pregnancy test, but you get a negative result just a few weeks down the road, this could be the sign of a chemical pregnancy after a frozen embryo transfer.
Common Symptoms of Chemical Pregnancies
It’s worth noting that chemical pregnancies are more common during the in vitro fertilization (IVF) process. That’s why it could be important for you to learn about it as a prospective surrogate.
If you’re concerned that you may be experiencing a chemical pregnancy after the embryo transfer, then be on the lookout for the following symptoms that typically indicate it:
A positive result on a home pregnancy test, followed by a negative test shortly after You get your period after a positive pregnancy test A heavier period with intense cramps Your period is a week late Low hCG levels
It's important to consult with a healthcare provider for a definitive diagnosis and to discuss any concerns.
Causes and Risk Factors of Chemical Pregnancies
There are several potential causes of chemical pregnancies to keep in mind. Some of the factors that play a role include:
Embryo genetic abnormalities Hormone imbalances Underlying medical conditions like PCOS Implantation issues
Sometimes, a chemical pregnancy occurs without a clear cause. Many early pregnancy losses are simply due to natural, random genetic variations that can't be pinpointed or prevented.
What are the odds of a chemical pregnancy after frozen embryo transfer?
Chemical pregnancies are relatively common, particularly in the context of assisted reproductive technologies (ART) like IVF. It’s estimated that around 50-60% of all pregnancies diagnosed by blood tests in early pregnancy may end in a chemical pregnancy. You are more likely to be at risk if you are over the age of 35.
While chemical pregnancies can happen to anyone, we ensure our surrogates are medically screened before you are cleared for the surrogacy medical process. This screening can detect certain conditions that may contribute to chemical pregnancies.
Coping with a Chemical Pregnancy After the Embryo Transfer: Moving Forward
The emotional toll of a chemical pregnancy might weigh on you, which is why it’s important to seek support from healthcare providers and professional counselors. Here’s what to keep in mind when moving forward from a chemical pregnancy after the embryo transfer.
Keep the intended parents informed about the situation with honesty and sensitivity. Clear communication can help manage their expectations and provide them with the support they need. Work closely with your healthcare provider to understand the implications of the chemical pregnancy and to plan for future steps in the surrogacy process. Here at our agency, we provide free, 24/7 counseling services so that you can process complex emotions like grief, loss or doubt, with one of our specialists. Take time to focus on your physical and emotional well-being. Engage in activities that help you relax and maintain balance. If another embryo transfer is planned, work with your agency and medical team to prepare for the next cycle, ensuring that all aspects are aligned for success.
When you fill out our online contact form, we can connect you with the proper resources to ensure you get the highest quality of emotional care possible.