Question:
6 Months Post Op, OTC Tests Positive For Pregnancy, Advice Needed.

At 6 months out, Open RNY, and down 80 lbs from 318, I may be pregnant. My husband and I have been having unprotected sex for over 3 years now and I figured I just had a problem conceiving, hence not using birth control. I've taken 4 different home preg tests, all came out positive. This is probably a stupid question, but how accurate are these things? Anyone ever take a test and get a false positive. Also, anyone pregnant in the early post op period have any advice or words of wisdom for this unexpected gift?? Thanks.    — J. W. (posted on April 26, 2003)

April 26, 2003
Home pregnancy tests are extremely accurate and it is extremely rare to ever get a false positive... I believe you should see your OBGYN without delay.
   — Happy I.

April 26, 2003
It's certainly possible to get a false positive from these tests. However, the only way to know for sure is probably to see your doctor. There is a yahoo group for post-WLS pregnancy which you might want to join. Go to www.yahoo.com, choose groups, then search on OSSG pregnancy. I have seen quite a lot of posts from women who got pregnant after their WLS. Two women in my local support group have delivered in the last 4 months or so. Both moms and both babies are thriving. Good luck!
   — garw

April 26, 2003
I am sorry to say this but there is no such thing as a false positive on a pregnancy test. It detects a hormone called HCG. and the only way that you have this hormone is if you are pregnant. Therefore, good news your expecting.Good Luck
   — Angie H.

April 26, 2003
I just wanted to add that there is a high percentage of women who were thought to be infertile, are able to cnceive once a large amount of weight is lost. This is why most (if not all) surgeons stress the use of protection after surgery. I am in no way fussing at you- believe me. I thought I was pregnant last month when I too was 6 months post-op. Definitely see your GYN ASAP and let your surgeon know as well. In conjuntion, they can work together to ensure that you and your baby do well. Best of luck to you and congratulations!......Karen (lap rny-9/20/02- down 127 pounds!)
   — karmiausnic

April 26, 2003
I have also been told by medical professionals that you can get a false negative from a home pregnancy test....but you can never get a false positive. Congrats!
   — ImANewDee

April 26, 2003
First thing I would do is to go to your PCP or OB/GYN and get it confirmed by a blood pregancy test. Then work with our OB/GYN and nutritionist on your diet and vitamin/mineral needs and how they will need to be adjusted due to your pregnancy. BTW, surgeons don't always stress the need of birth control to the WLS patients. That's why it behooves the WLS candidate to do their own extensive research. Congratulations and best of luck with the pregnancy! JR
   — John Rushton

April 26, 2003
Congrats I WISH me and Jen were so lucky. pregnancy at this time is to be avoided but it is mangeable. Our support group has some very unplanned new postie babies. They are so wonderful. Do get close follow up. Mom and baby can both be healthy and happy. Besides look on the brite side:) What better exercise than chasing after a kid! This will NOT ruin your weight loss, those moms look fantastic!
   — bob-haller