When to Worry About High hCG Hormone during Pregnancy: Symptoms That Require Medical Attention

 The hCG hormone during pregnancy plays a vital role in maintaining the pregnancy, particularly during the first trimester. hCG stimulates the corpus luteum to produce progesterone, which thickens the uterine lining and supports the growing fetus. A normal hCG level during pregnancy increases rapidly in the early weeks. In this blog, you will optimize an understanding of the function of the hCG hormone during pregnancy, the symptoms associated with elevated levels, when medical attention is needed and the risk associated with it.

 hCG Hormone Levels During Pregnancy: 

There are two main types of hCG tests: a qualitative test, which checks for the presence of hCG in the blood, and a quantitative (or beta) test, which measures the exact amount of hCG in the bloodstream. An hCG level under 5 mIU/mL is considered negative for pregnancy, while a level over 25 mIU/mL confirms pregnancy. If the hCG level falls between 6 and 24 mIU/mL, it is considered inconclusive and known as a "grey area," and a follow-up test may be needed to verify if the levels increase and confirm pregnancy. While hCG levels are a valuable tool for monitoring pregnancy, they are not a standalone diagnostic tool. Here’s a breakdown of what different hCG levels can mean during pregnancy and why it’s important to consider them

Low hCG Levels: hCG hormone level is low during pregnancy can be concerning because they may signal potential complications, such as Miscarriage and Ectopic Pregnancy

Normal hCG Levels: In most healthy pregnancies, normal hCG hormone during pregnancy is doubled every 48 to 72 hours during the first trimester and peaks around week 10 and then gradually declines.

High hCG Levels: Elevated hCG levels during pregnancy can occur for several reasons, and while they may be a normal part of a healthy pregnancy or might indicate other conditions

Symptoms of High hCG Hormone Levels During Pregnancy

These symptoms might not necessarily mean something is wrong, but persistent or severe discomfort should be discussed with a doctor. Early intervention can help ensure the health and well-being of both the mother and the developing baby.

●      Severe nausea and vomiting

●      Fatigue and weakness

●      Bloating and abdominal pain/discomfort

Risk with High hCG Hormone during Pregnancy

Gestational trophoblastic disease (GTD): One medical concern related to elevated hCG hormone during pregnancy is the potential for GTD, which can occur during or after pregnancy. This condition leads to abnormal cell growth in the uterus, while some of these cells can be cancerous

Molar pregnancy: This is caused due to high hCG hormone during pregnancy, a rare condition that involves abnormal growth of the tissue that would develop into the placenta

In addition to the aforementioned risks, high hCG hormone during pregnancy can also indicate the presence of multiple pregnancies, such as twins or triplets. When a woman is carrying more than one fetus, the body produces higher amounts of hCG, which is a normal physiological response.

Abnormal hCG Hormone Levels During Pregnancy: When to Require Medical Attention

It’s important to be aware of symptoms that signal abnormal hCG levels and may require immediate medical attention. Some of these symptoms include:

●      Sharp abdominal pain: This can be a warning sign of an ectopic pregnancy, where the embryo implants outside the uterus, often in the fallopian tube. This is a medical emergency requiring prompt treatment.

●      Heavy vaginal bleeding: Excessive bleeding, especially when combined with cramping, could indicate a miscarriage or other complications.

●      Severe dizziness or fainting: This can result from low blood pressure, which can be linked to abnormal hCG levels and should be addressed immediately.

●      Severe dehydration and weight loss: If high hCG levels during pregnancy cause extreme nausea and vomiting (hyperemesis gravidarum), medical treatment may be necessary to prevent dehydration and ensure the health of both mother and baby.

While hCG hormone levels during pregnancy can provide valuable insights, they are not conclusive on their own. Low or high hCG measurements may point to potential issues, but they do not provide a diagnosis. Doctors consider a variety of factors, including ultrasound results, physical symptoms, and other hormone levels, to get a complete picture of the pregnancy's health.