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Pregnancy Today's Advisory Panel Answers:
My hCG level didn't double - should I be concerned?

by Kathy Loebel
Certified Nurse-Midwife
Swedish Covenant Hospital, Chicago
Kathy Loebel

Question

Two weeks ago at 6 weeks, I had two hCG blood levels done to make sure that the pregnancy was progressing properly. My nurse seemed concerned that the levels did not double. I am getting blood drawn to have another check. I am concerned that I will have a miscarriage because of low levels. I had a ultrasound last week and the doctor didn't seem concerned. Should I worry? Is there something I can do?

Answer

If your doctor, during that second appointment, did not seem concerned about the levels of human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) - the pregnancy hormone measured by both blood and urine pregnancy tests - you should feel confident that your risk of miscarriage is no greater than that of the general population.

Rest, nutrition, vitamins and adequate exercise are the best and only things you can do at this time in the pregnancy to increase your chances of a healthy baby. A positive attitude always helps, too!

This Week's Expert Q & A

Kathy Loebel, certified nurse-midwife, answers: “How can I avoid an episiotomy or tearing?"

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