HCG Levels

According to my doctor I am seven weeks pregnant.  I have had one miscariage and have only been pregnant twice.  My doctor checked my HCG levels almost 48 hours apart and they didn't double.  They did rise a little, but not enough to double in count.  They are very concerned and want to do an ultrasound on Monday.  I am worried sick b/c everything I research suggest an eptopic pregnancy or that the pregnancy may not be progressing.  However, I am experiencing symptoms.  (nausea, fatigue, and frequent urination)  Please assist me with some advice.

[Kevin Pho, MD]

The transvaginal ultrasound should be able to rule out an ectopic pregnancy if this is a consideration.  

The HCG should double very 2-3 days in a normal pregnancy.  Here is  a charge of the "normal" HCG rates.  Note that there will be some variation:

* 0-1 week: 0-50 mIU/ml
* 1-2 weeks: 40-300 mIU/ml
* 3-4 weeks: 500-6,000 mIU/ml
* 1-2 months: 5,000-200,000 mIU/ml
* 2-3 months: 10,000-100,000 mIU/ml
* 2nd trimester: 3,000-50,000 mIU/ml
* 3rd trimester: 1,000-50,000 mIU/ml
* Non-pregnant females: <5.0 mIU/ml
* Postmenopausal females: <9.5 mIU/ml

Symptoms like nausea and fatigue may be present whether the pregnancy is viable or not.  You can discuss this with your obstetrician.

Followup with your personal physician is essential.

This answer is not intended as and does not substitute for medical advice - the information presented is for patient education only. Please see your personal physician for further evaluation of your individual case.

Kevin, M.D.
http://www.straightfromthedoc.com

[kicky]

Kevin - Is that chart for the range of HCG levels in terms
weeks from conception or week since last cycle?