Normal hCG levels in pregnancy chart from www.invitra.com

The Basics of HCG Levels When Pregnant

What is HCG?

Human Chorionic Gonadotrophin, or HCG, is a hormone produced by the developing placenta after a fertilized egg has been implanted in the uterus. HCG is the hormone that is detected in home pregnancy tests and is what is used to confirm a pregnancy.

What are Normal HCG Levels When Pregnant?

HCG levels can vary depending on the individual and the stage of the pregnancy. Generally, the HCG levels will double every two to three days during the first four to six weeks of the pregnancy. After six to eight weeks the HCG levels will start to plateau and then start to decline. The average levels of HCG in early pregnancy are:

5 mIU/ml (milli-International Units per milliliter) at week 5
25 mIU/ml at week 6
50 mIU/ml at week 8
100 mIU/ml at week 10
2,000 mIU/ml at week 14

HCG levels are usually highest at 8 to 11 weeks of pregnancy and then decline until the end of the pregnancy.

What Do Abnormal HCG Levels Mean?

It is important to note that there is no single “normal” HCG level when pregnant. As the HCG levels can vary greatly, it is important to speak with your doctor or midwife if you are concerned about your HCG levels. Abnormal HCG levels can indicate an ectopic pregnancy, a miscarriage, or a molar pregnancy. Ectopic pregnancies occur when the fertilized egg implants outside of the uterus, usually in the fallopian tube. This can be dangerous for the mother and the pregnancy should be terminated. A miscarriage occurs when the pregnancy does not progress and the HCG levels will start to decline. A molar pregnancy is when the placenta develops abnormally and the HCG levels will remain high even after a miscarriage. In all of these cases, it is important to get checked by a doctor as soon as possible.

Can HCG Levels Be Too Low When Pregnant?

It is possible for HCG levels to be too low when pregnant. This can indicate an abnormally developing pregnancy and it is important to get checked by a doctor as soon as possible. Low HCG levels can indicate a miscarriage, an ectopic pregnancy, or a blighted ovum. A blighted ovum is when the fertilized egg attaches itself to the uterus, but does not develop into an embryo. This is also known as an anembryonic pregnancy, and it is important to speak with your doctor or midwife if you are concerned about your HCG levels.

What Else Do I Need to Know?

HCG levels can give an indication of the health of the pregnancy, but they are not the only indicator. It is important to remember that HCG levels can vary greatly from individual to individual and even from pregnancy to pregnancy. It is important to speak with your doctor or midwife if you are worried about your HCG levels or if you experience any pregnancy complications.