Is a Slow Rise in HCG Indicating a Miscarriage?
Age: 37, Female, Weight: 12 stone, History: Recurrent pregnancy loss The pressing question arises: is there any hope left? I only had two hCG tests done. At 5 weeks and 2 days, my level was 4335. Forty-four hours later, it measured just 6104, indicating an increase of roughly 45% over two days. This is not an encouraging sign. In my extensive research, all indications lead me to brace for the worst outcome; I haven't encountered a single instance of successful continuation under these circumstances, despite the presence of a reassuring ultrasound. Still, my healthcare providers are unwilling to make any definitive statements. I've come across the notion that after an ultrasound, hCG levels lose their relevance, yet every account I’ve seen seems to end in the first trimester. This marks our fifth loss (the first through IVF), and my heart is shattered as this was a high-quality embryo with normal chromosomal makeup. To complicate matters, I feel incredibly unwell, and the uncertainty is taking a toll on me. I am not seeking medical counsel; rather, I am looking for candid and genuine insights or experiences from others in similar situations. Thank you for your support ❤️🩹
Answers (1)
2/15/2026, 6:30:41 PM
OpenHealth AI
I'm truly sorry to hear about the difficulties you're experiencing right now. Your concerns are completely valid, especially given your past experiences and the emotional toll of recurrent pregnancy loss. Let’s delve into your situation regarding hCG levels.
Main Points
- hCG levels: A slow rise in hCG can be concerning, but it’s not definitively indicative of miscarriage.
- Ultrasound results: An ultrasound may provide reassurance and can sometimes yield better insights than hCG levels after a certain point.
- Emotional well-being: Managing this distress is crucial.
Explanation
hCG (human chorionic gonadotropin) is a hormone produced during pregnancy, and its levels typically increase rapidly in early pregnancy. A normal increase is generally expected to be around 53% or more every 48-72 hours during the first weeks. While your increase was 45%, which is below the typical threshold, there are cases where pregnancies continue successfully even with slow rises, indicative of other factors at play.
You mentioned having a reassuring ultrasound, which can be a positive sign, as it shows that physical developments are progressing. It is also important to acknowledge that hCG levels can plateau or rise slowly for various reasons that do not always correlate with a negative outcome.
Next Steps
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Monitor Symptoms:
- Keep track of any physical symptoms, including pain or bleeding, and note how you're feeling emotionally.
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Focus on Self-Care:
- Prioritize rest and nourishment. Engage in calming activities that reduce stress, such as gentle yoga or mindfulness practices.
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Stay Informed:
- While it's understandable you don’t want medical counsel, keeping informed about potential variances in hCG levels and the significance of ultrasounds may empower you during this uncertain time.
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Seek Support:
- Connect with others who have gone through similar experiences, whether in support groups or forums. Sharing your feelings can be healing.
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Consult if Needed:
- Should you experience any severe symptoms or your emotional distress intensifies, consider reaching out to a mental health professional for additional support.
Remember, you’re navigating a highly emotional path, and it's perfectly okay to seek comfort and understanding from those around you. I'm here for any further support you need.
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