HCG Levels during Pregnancy

HCG is the hormone that is produced by the placenta during pregnancy. This hormone is what detects pregnancy during a pregnancy test. It stands for human Chorionic Gonadotropin.

During a normal pregnancy, the HCG levels will steadily rise throughout pregnancy. The HCG levels will peak around the 8^th to 10^th week of pregnancy and then decline until delivery.

There are some average HCG levels that you can use as a guide during pregnancy, but the overall goal is a steady increase during pregnancy. Generally, these levels should double every two to three days in early pregnancy.

What does it mean if my HCG levels decline or if they are not increasing?

HCG levels that decline may indicate that fetal death has already occurred. Levels that are not increasing as they should be, may indicate a pending miscarriage or a possible ectopic (tubal) pregnancy. Please note that some women will have lower than normal HCG levels during pregnancy and will continue to have an otherwise normal pregnancy and baby.

Treatment:

If the HCG levels are declining or are not what they are supposed to be, generally the doctor will look at the progesterone level. If the progesterone level is also low or at an abnormal level for the stage of pregnancy you are in, you may be given progesterone cream to help sustain the pregnancy. This cream comes in the form of a vaginal suppository and the doctor may recommend continuing its use until the 16^th week of pregnancy.

What do high levels of HCG mean?

Women who have high levels of HCG may have an increased risk for having a baby with Down's Syndrome. If high levels are detected, the doctor may perform an amniocentesis to test whether or not you are carrying a baby with Down's Syndrome.

High levels of HCG may also indicate pregnancy with twins or more.

Below is a chart of normal ranges of HCG levels in pregnancy (single fetus pregnancies).

HCG Levels during Pregnancy
Week of Pregnancy	Normal HCG Levels
1	5-50 mIU/ML (usually around 25)
2	5-50 mIU/ML
3	5-50 mIU/ML
4	10-425 mIU/ML
5	19-7,340 mIU/ML
6	1,080-56,500 mIU/ML
7-8	7,650-229,000 mIU/ML
9-12	25,700-288,000 mIU/ML
13-16	13,300-254,000 mIU/ML
17-24	4,060-165,400 mIU/ML
25-40	3,640-117,000 mIU/ML

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This calculator predicts ovulation dates based on the date of your last period and the length of your menstrual cycle. It provides approximate dates only. Having intercourse during the few days before ovulation will give you the best chance of becoming pregnant. Since sperm can survive for several days, keep in mind that these are not the only days to become pregnant.

Remember: If your periods are irregular, this calculator is not a good way to predict your ovulation dates. Speak to your doctor about other ways to help you identify when you can conceive.

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