HCG Levels After Abortion: What Do They Mean?

Chorionic gonadotropin

Hello Doctor: I underwent a surgical abortion on August 17 (approximately three months pregnant, the embryo suddenly had no heartbeat).
After the surgery, I returned to the hospital for a follow-up a week later, and the results were good.
However, I experienced bleeding that lasted about four to five days, but a week later, the bleeding returned and lasted for 20 days.
The doctor recommended that I have my serum beta-hCG levels checked.
On September 4, the result was 85.1, which the doctor considered abnormal and advised me to test again.
On September 17, the result was 25.
What does this level indicate? What is considered normal? Additionally, an ultrasound on September 17 revealed a 5 cm cyst on my right ovary, which was not detected during a detailed ultrasound I had on August 22.
Is this related to the beta-hCG levels? If not, what should I be aware of? Thank you!

Fang, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2003/09/23

Dr. Zhan Deqin reply Obstetrics and Gynecology

1.
The normal level of beta-human chorionic gonadotropin (Beta-HCG) is below 10, and it significantly increases during pregnancy.
Since your levels are already decreasing, it indicates that there is no longer a concern.

2.
Regarding pregnancy, during pregnancy, the ovaries can easily enlarge and develop cysts.

Reply Date: 2003/09/23

More Info

Understanding HCG Levels After Abortion: What Do They Mean?
After an abortion, monitoring human chorionic gonadotropin (HCG) levels is crucial for assessing the body’s return to a non-pregnant state. HCG is a hormone produced during pregnancy, and its levels typically rise in early pregnancy, peaking around the 10th week before gradually declining. After an abortion, it is expected that HCG levels will decrease as the body expels any remaining pregnancy tissue.

In your case, you underwent an abortion on August 17, and your HCG levels were monitored afterward. On September 4, your HCG level was 85.1, which your doctor deemed abnormal, indicating that the hormone was still present in your system. By September 17, your HCG level had decreased to 25, which is a positive sign that your body is moving towards normalcy. Generally, HCG levels should return to below 5 mIU/mL, which is considered non-pregnant. The fact that your levels are decreasing is encouraging, but they should continue to decline until they reach this baseline.

The presence of a 5 cm cyst on your right ovary, as detected during the ultrasound, can be a common occurrence after an abortion. Ovarian cysts can form due to hormonal changes in the body, especially after the disruption of a pregnancy. These cysts are often functional and can resolve on their own without treatment. However, it is essential to monitor them, especially if they cause pain or discomfort.
Regarding your HCG levels and the ovarian cyst, they are generally not directly related. The cyst is likely a result of your body's hormonal adjustments post-abortion rather than a sign of retained pregnancy tissue. However, if your HCG levels do not continue to decline or if you experience significant pain, it is crucial to follow up with your healthcare provider. They may recommend further imaging or blood tests to ensure that there are no complications, such as retained products of conception or an abnormal growth.

In summary, your HCG levels indicate that your body is on the right track towards recovery after the abortion, but they need to be monitored until they reach a non-pregnant level. The ovarian cyst is likely a separate issue related to hormonal changes, and while it is usually not a cause for concern, it should be monitored for any changes. Always communicate any new symptoms or concerns with your healthcare provider to ensure appropriate care and follow-up.

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