What are symptoms of increasing hCG?
In the first 2 weeks, women may experience light spotting, breast soreness, mood swings, nausea, or bloating. These symptoms are due to an increase in an important hormone called human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG).
What does increased hCG mean?
As with low levels, high levels of hCG do not necessarily indicate a problem with a pregnancy. Some women simply have higher levels. If a woman has high hCG levels, it could point to twins or triplets, though only a scan can confirm this. Sometimes, above-average levels of hCG indicate a higher chance of Down syndrome.
How quickly does hCG rise in early pregnancy?
The levels of hCG rise rapidly in the earliest days of pregnancy and can be detected around eight days after the estimated day of conception in the blood by the most sensitive laboratory methods. Home pregnancy tests can detect it a few days later in urine depending on their sensitivity.
How much should hCG increase in 2 weeks?
A normal rise in hCG during the early 2-3 weeks of the pregnancy indicates a viable pregnancy….Normal hCG doubling times.
| hCG Level | Doubling Time Expected |
|---|---|
| 1200-6000 mIU/ml | Between 72 and 96 Hours |
| Over 6,000 mIU/ml | Over 96 Hours |
What causes hCG to rise in pregnancy?
Causes may include a placental tumor or molar pregnancy, in which a non-viable egg implants in the uterus and secretes the hCG hormone. Higher levels of hCG may also represent pregnancy with multiples, or an inaccurate measurement of gestational age (the pregnancy could be further along than expected).
What can cause hCG levels to rise slowly?
Slow-rising quantitative hCG levels, at least in early pregnancy, may be a sign of an ectopic pregnancy. 3 Since a ruptured ectopic pregnancy can be dangerous, your doctor may recommend a transvaginal ultrasound to look for signs of an ectopic pregnancy.