How likely is it that I am miscarrying?

[lyssab23]

I recently found out I was pregnant after having 3 positive home pregnancy test results.  I found out last Saturday (July 17th 2010).  I spotted brown colored blood a few days before my scheduled period and on the day I was supposed to get it.  It concerned me because my period is always pretty heavy and never changes in constitency.  I then took the test with positive results.  I scheduled an OB appointment for today (July 23rd).  Late Wednesday night (July 21st) my boyfriend and I had sex and afterward I started bleeding.  We went to the ER around 1:30 Thursday morning.  They gave me two ultrasounds (internal and external) and did some blood work.  After all of the testing the doctor told me that my hcg levels were low, most likely due to my being only about 4 weeks pregnant.  He also told me that it is too early to tell if there is anything wrong, such as a miscarriage or ectopic pregnancy, or if I'm just having some bleeding.  I was told to keep my scheduled appointment for today to have my hcg levels tested again to see if they've gone up.  At my appointment today I, again, was still not told exactly how far along I am.  The doctor told me, again, that it is too early to tell what is going on but to prepare for a miscarriage so I don't get my hopes up.  I mentioned I had been taking St. John's Wort, an herbal mood supplement, and she told me that it can thin my blood and cause me to bleed more.  She also discussed having a d&c with me, which I am afraid to go through with. I am 25 years old and have a 4 and a half year old son.  I had no problems with him during pregnancy, including no type of bleeding.  I am scheduled for another ultrasound and more blood work on Thursday July 29th.  I am being hopeful but am afraid I am getting my hopes up.  This pregnancy was not planned but I will be devastated if I do miscarry.  What are the chances that I may, or may not be miscarrying right now? I still have a few pregnancy symptoms, frequent urination and cravings. Those symptoms are also the only symtoms I had with my first pregnancy.

[pb95]

It can be normal for a pregant person to have spotting after sex because your cervix is sensitive due to the hormonal increase.  I know you must be out of your mind but you are smart to stay positive!

[lyssab23]

I had never heard of a d&c before until today and I think I'd rather wait a while to have it to see if I am actually miscarrying.  They did tell me what my hcg levels were on Wednesday at the hospital.  If I remember correctly I think the doctor said the level was around fifty something but I am not positive. Is that level normal at around 4 weeks?

Thank you for your advice.  I am worried, but trying to stay positive and wait things out.  I hope for the best.
Thanks again!

[rccresswell]

I think it is too early either way to decide but I think you should wait and see before you have a dnc.  Did the doctor tell you what your hcg levells were???  As unfortunate as it is I think you just have to play the waiting game and see what happens.  I do know from my own expeience you can have a healthy pregnancy and then a miscariage.  I was given a 5% chance of miscarrying due to two healthy pregnancies and how far along I was but two days later without any warning I miscarried.

I would recommend staying positive and remember every pregnancy is different.  Some women do bleed when they are pregnant and your doctor could be right about the herbal supplement.  Just remember to take it easy and wait it out.

Take care