Seeing that positive pregnancy test is thrilling! But what comes next? One crucial factor is your hCG (human chorionic gonadotropin) levels. These levels, measured in mIU/mL, rise rapidly in early pregnancy and are key to tracking its progress.
So, what are typical hCG levels by week? Generally:
* **Week 3-4:** 50-500 mIU/mL
* **Week 4-5:** 500-6,000 mIU/mL
* **Week 5-6:** 6,000-100,000 mIU/mL
* **Week 6-8:** 100,000-200,000 mIU/mL
* **Week 8-12:** Peaks, then gradually declines.
It's important to remember that these are just ranges! Individual hCG levels vary widely. A single number isn't as important as how your levels change over time. Your doctor will likely order serial hCG tests, usually 48-72 hours apart, to monitor the rise. A healthy pregnancy typically shows a doubling of hCG levels every 48-72 hours in early pregnancy. Low or slowly rising levels can sometimes indicate potential problems, while very high levels could point to multiples. Always discuss your results and concerns with your healthcare provider for personalized guidance and accurate interpretation.
