Day 14 HCG Level

I had two, day five blastocysts transferred on March 18, 2010.  I went today for my first HCG blood test to confirm pregnancy and when the nurse called she told me that she had "Good news and bad news" as the HCG level had come back low at 37 when a normal level was 50.  She told me that she was very sorry, that I was indeed pregnant, but that it was more than likely not a viable pregnancy and I would probably miscarry.  She told me that I would need to come back in 3 days to re-check the levels to see if they are increasing or decreasing.  After the conversation I did a little research and found that every female pregnancy can be different and that 37 is not actually that "low" and HCG levels cannot be determined this early as to whether a pregnancy will terminate.  What I want to know is, am I being too sensitive?  I know that I am pregnant but how can I be excited now?

[Elaine Brown, MD]

Hi!
I NEVER recommend giving up hope!  beta hcg levels are definitely not absolute indicators of anything.  You will have a MUCH better idea of how things are going and what your prognosis is after your second level.  I do recommend hoping for the best and preparing for the worst however, so that you are not completely devastated if the levels don't go your way.  Whatever happens, you have been pregnant once, and therefore, it could happen again.  Take good care of yourself and say your prayers if you do so, it will turn out the way it is meant to be!
Best Wishes!
Dr B

[Kristyingeorgia]

WOW, I cant believe she was so negative!!! She has no reason to say that, she has no idea!! Sure its low however she doesnt know when the baby implanted or anything geez! Did you get a + hpt? Even if they tell you to stop meds DONT!!! Wait till the next beta to decide. I have read so many miracle stories that nothing is impossible!!! Don't give up hope yet. Im really sorry for you, that really *****!!

[Froggy128]

Thank you for your comments, they made me feel a whole lot better.  I did take an early response hpt on Friday and there was a faint pink line indicating pregnancy.  Out of curiousity, I took another pregnancy test before my blood test yester and had the same faint pink line.  This morning I took another test and the pink line was very pronounced.  I put the two tests side by side on the dining room table for my husband to see and he knew immediately which one was darker.  I want to be positive right now so I am hoping that means my HCG levels are increasing.  I will update on Wednesday as I am flying overseas after my test on Tuesday.

[Aurangina]

Hang in there and dont give up hope, you have a positive and thats a great start.  I would definately check into seeing a high risk ob/gyn and get a second opinion on things.  Everyone is different and if the levels are going UP thats good news.

[Froggy128]

I received my HCG level today, 72 hours after the 1st and it is now 78.  The first test was 37 which means that has slightly more than doubled.  The doctors office is still very concerned as they are telling me this is still too low but the criteria is to double within 48-72 hours!  So here is still sit on pins and needles waiting another 48 hours to see if the number is going up, leveling off or declining.  This pregnancy is the result of our first IVF and the doctor is saying there could be a small chance of it being ectopic or a chemical pregnancy.  So, I will update more later. Thank you for the comments.

[kiser79]

I wish you Luck ;) Hopefully you are prego...Try to stay calm don't think too much & remember to stay POSITIVE ;) xo

[Froggy128]

I had my third blood test today, 48 hours after the HCG level of 78, and it is now 211!  The doctor has ordered another test for Saturday, another 48 hours.  I will keep you posted but things are looking much, much better.

[Kristyingeorgia]

Your in my thoughts!! Good luck!!!

[mhv]

Good Luck!  Sounds like things are looking up!  : )