Beta hCG Levels During Pregnancy

Upon conception, a woman's body starts to produce a "pregnancy hormone" called Human Chorionic Gonadotropin, commonly referred to as hCG. hCG production begins approximately 8-10 days after conception when the embryo starts to implant itself into the uterine lining (implantation). It is this hormone that is measured by Home Pregnancy Tests (HPTs), and if present, return a positive result. An hCG Beta Blood test is much more sensitive than an HPT, and can detect pregnancy as early as 10 days after fertilization.

As the embryo grows, the level of hCG rises and, as a general rule, hCG beta numbers should double every two to three days. A dramatic decrease in the levels may indicate a miscarriage has occurred or is possible, whereas a level that lingers or falls well below the normal range may indicate an Ectopic pregnancy. hCG beta levels can also be used to identify a multiple pregnancy. hCG levels will top out in the 2nd or 3rd month.

The numbers in this Beta hCG chart are to be used only as a guideline and should be interpreted by your physician.