HCG Levels and Post-Medication Abortion Symptoms - Obstetrics and Gynecology

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Understanding HCG Levels and Post-Medication Abortion Symptoms
After a medical abortion, it is common to have questions regarding HCG (human chorionic gonadotropin) levels and the symptoms that may arise during the recovery process. HCG is a hormone produced during pregnancy, and its levels are often monitored to assess the status of a pregnancy or to confirm the completion of an abortion.

In your case, you mentioned that you are 17 days post-medication abortion and have noticed a white discharge during urination. This discharge could potentially be remnants of pregnancy tissue, such as chorionic villi or placental tissue, but it is essential to understand that not all white discharge is indicative of retained tissue. The body can take time to clear out any remaining hormonal or physical remnants after an abortion, and this process can vary significantly from person to person.

Regarding your question about HCG levels post-abortion, it is important to note that HCG levels should decrease after a successful medical abortion. Typically, HCG levels can take anywhere from a few days to several weeks to return to non-pregnant levels (usually less than 5 mIU/mL). The rate at which HCG decreases can depend on several factors, including how far along the pregnancy was at the time of the abortion and individual variations in hormone metabolism.

In general, HCG levels are expected to drop by at least 50% every 48 hours after a medical abortion. If you are experiencing a rise in HCG levels, as you mentioned with a value of 1.66, this could indicate that the abortion was not completely successful, or there may be other factors at play, such as the presence of retained tissue or even a new pregnancy. It is crucial to follow up with your healthcare provider for further evaluation, which may include additional blood tests to monitor HCG levels and possibly an ultrasound to assess for any retained products of conception.

If you are experiencing any concerning symptoms, such as heavy bleeding, severe abdominal pain, or fever, it is essential to seek medical attention promptly. These symptoms could indicate complications such as infection or incomplete abortion, which may require further medical intervention.

In summary, after a medication abortion, it is normal for HCG levels to decline, and any white discharge should be monitored. If you have concerns about your HCG levels or any symptoms you are experiencing, it is best to consult with your healthcare provider for personalized advice and appropriate follow-up care. They can provide you with the necessary tests and evaluations to ensure your health and well-being during this recovery period.