What is HCG and How It Affects Pregnancy?

Human chorionic gonadotropin (HCG) is a hormone produced by the cells of the trophoblast after pregnancy occurs. The HCG level can be detected in blood serum as early as 7-10 days after embryo implantation.

Why is HCG Important?

• To confirm pregnancy in the early stages when the embryo is not yet visible on ultrasound.
• To monitor the development of pregnancy. A normally developing pregnancy is characterized by the doubling of HCG levels every 48-72 hours.

Normal HCG Levels at Different Stages of Pregnancy

Every pregnancy is unique, so there are no exact standard HCG levels for each stage. HCG levels can vary, and they are individual for each woman.

What to Do if HCG Levels Are Low or High?

Don't panic about your HCG results. It is important to understand that HCG levels depend on many factors, and they should be evaluated in the context of other tests and data.

How to Track Pregnancy Progression with HCG?

To accurately understand if your pregnancy is progressing, doctors may recommend a repeat HCG test after 48-72 hours to assess if the level is doubling.

When Should You Have an Ultrasound?

• The first ultrasound is usually done around the 7th week of pregnancy to confirm the presence of the embryo in the uterus and evaluate embryo development.
• Ultrasound helps determine the pregnancy's duration based on the embryo's size and assess fetal heartbeat.

Don’t Panic If Your HCG Doesn’t Match the Tables

Many women get worried when comparing their results with tables found online. However, HCG levels can vary significantly between laboratories, and this is perfectly normal.

When Should You See a Doctor?

If your HCG test shows a positive result, it is important to inform your doctor. The doctor will determine whether a repeat test is needed and when to schedule the first ultrasound to confirm the pregnancy's location.

Conclusion

HCG is an important marker that helps diagnose pregnancy in its early stages and track its progression. However, to get an accurate assessment, multiple tests should be conducted, and it is essential to consult a doctor.