HCG Levels in Pregnancy and hCG Chart What’s Normal vs. Low from www.whattoexpect.com

What Causes HCG Levels to Rise if Not Pregnant

What is HCG?

Human chorionic gonadotropin (HCG) is a hormone produced during pregnancy. It is made by cells that form the placenta, which nourishes the egg after it has been fertilized and becomes attached to the uterine wall. HCG is used to cause ovulation and to treat infertility in women.

What Causes HCG Levels to Rise If a Woman Is Not Pregnant?

Though HCG is usually associated with pregnancy, it is possible for levels to rise in a woman who is not pregnant. This can be caused by a variety of conditions, including certain types of cancer, ovarian cysts, and other medical conditions.

Cancer

Certain types of cancer, such as cancer of the breast and the ovaries, can cause HCG levels to rise. In some cases, the cancer cells may produce HCG. An elevated HCG level can be an indicator of the presence of cancer, and further testing may be needed to determine if this is the case.

Ovarian Cysts

HCG levels may also be elevated if a woman has ovarian cysts. Ovarian cysts are fluid-filled sacs that can develop in the ovaries. These cysts can secrete HCG and cause levels to rise. They can usually be treated with medication or surgery.

Medical Conditions

In some cases, medical conditions such as hypothyroidism or polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) can also cause HCG levels to rise. In these cases, the HCG is not related to pregnancy, but is instead caused by the underlying medical condition. Treatment of the medical condition can usually help to reduce HCG levels.

What Tests Are Used to Check HCG Levels?

If a woman’s HCG levels are suspected to be elevated, her doctor may order a blood test to check the levels. This test is called a quantitative human chorionic gonadotropin (qHCG) test. It measures the exact amount of HCG in the blood, and can be used to determine if the woman is pregnant or if the HCG levels are elevated for another reason.

What Are the Treatment Options for Elevated HCG Levels?

If the cause of elevated HCG levels is cancer, ovarian cysts, or another medical condition, treatment of the underlying condition is usually recommended. Treatment options vary depending on the cause, but can include surgery, medication, or lifestyle changes. It is important to discuss all available options with your doctor.

Conclusion

HCG is a hormone that is usually associated with pregnancy, but can also be elevated in a woman who is not pregnant. In these cases, the cause of the elevated HCG levels can be cancer, ovarian cysts, or a medical condition. If a woman’s HCG levels are suspected to be elevated, she should talk to her doctor to discuss the available treatment options.