WOMENS-HEALTH Messages for October, 1998: Re: HCG levels,6 weeks pg (8wks since LMP)

Re: HCG levels,6 weeks pg (8wks since LMP)

From: D. Ashley Hill, M.D. (anonymous@obgyn.net)
Wed, 28 Oct 1998 19:22:32 -0600 (CST)

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Reply: Wendy: "Re: HCG levels,6 weeks pg (8wks since LMP)"

At Wed, 28 Oct 1998, Wendy wrote:

>What is a normal HCG level for the end of your 6th week/beginning 7th?

One of the more common questions asked in this forum, and in doctor's offices, is about the relationship between HCG levels and pregnancy. Unfortunately, there is no consistent way to determine what a "normal" HCG level should be at any given time during pregnancy. They should rise *about* 66% every 48 hours, but will actually begin to decrease around 9-10 weeks. Since HCG is made by the placenta, and not the baby, it is even possible to have only a placenta inside the uterus, but no baby (a condition called blighted ovum) and still have a rising HCG level.

>Should an ultrasound dr. be able to hear a heartbeat @ the end of 6
>weeks?

If the conception date is absolutely correct, and the patient is not very overweight, and their are no fibroids, and the ultrasound equipment is good, and the doctor or sonographer is good, a heartbeat should be easily visible by vaginal ultrasound at 6 weeks of pregnancy. However, a heartbeat is not normally heard until about 12 weeks of pregnancy.

Good luck with everything.

-- Ashley Hill David Ashley Hill, M.D. Associate Director Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology Florida Hospital Family Practice Residency Orlando, FL http://home.mpinet.net/dahmd

The above is intended for general medical education, and is not for specific medical advice. I apologize, but I am unable to answer personal e-mail due to time constraints.

Next message: ann: "Appendicitis, PID, pelvic pain???"
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In reply to: Wendy: "HCG levels,6 weeks pg (8wks since LMP)"
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