Re: Low HCG levels

Posted By hfhs.md.rcs on January 27, 1999 at 15:49:59:

In Reply to: Low HCG levels posted by Julia on January 27, 1999 at 15:13:13:






  
My first HCG level is 393.  I am 5 weeks, 2 days from my LMP but only 2 weeks 5days from date of conception (according to ovulation predictor test and temperature rise).  My doctor wants to take another level in two days to see how the #s are multiplying.  What does it mean when your numbers start out low?  Should I be concerned?  I had some very slight spotting and cramping when my period was due but nothing since then (about 10 days).  What would cause the number to be so low?  Thank you.
Dear Julia:
Nineteen days following ovulation, which is 5 days beyond the missed period in a standardized cycle wherein the luteal phase is 14 days long: at this time, an hCG level 393 mIU/ml is a normal range value. I do not know the source of information you are using to call this value low.
hCG levels double every 2-3 days during the first 6-7 weeks of pregnancy. The pattern of change has more meaning than the absolute level.
Spotting/cramping around the time of the missed flow is common and has no bad meaning.
Keywords: hCG, early pregnancy
This information is provided for education purposes and is not a medical consultation. If you have specific questions, please speak with your physician.