What are the Causes of low hCG levels in Women?
HCG (human chorionic gonadotropin) is a pregnancy hormone produced by placenta cells to support and nourish the embryo attached to the uterine wall. While hCG levels vary, high levels may indicate health issues like liver disorders or cancer.
Low hCG levels often indicate a problem with the pregnancy, including:
- Fetal death
- Miscarriage
- Ectopic pregnancy
Low hCG levels in early or late pregnancy
HCG levels typically rise during the first trimester, peaking around weeks 8 to 11, then decline and stabilize in later pregnancy. Monitoring hCG levels becomes less crucial as pregnancy progresses. However, stagnant or declining hCG levels may indicate a pregnancy problem.
What are the Causes of low hCG levels in Women?
Sometimes, low hCG levels can be caused due to underlying problems. Let us quickly discuss the causes of low hCG levels:
Gestational age miscalculated
Gestational age is usually calculated from the last menstrual period, but irregular cycles or uncertain dates can lead to errors. Low hCG levels might indicate the pregnancy is earlier than initially thought. Doctors may use an ultrasound and additional hCG tests to determine gestational age accurately. This is the first step in assessing low hCG levels.
Miscarriage
A miscarriage is a pregnancy loss before 20 weeks of gestation. Low hCG levels may indicate an impending or past miscarriage, especially if the placenta fails to develop correctly, causing hCG levels to stop rising.
Common Signs:
- Passing tissue or clots
- Vaginal bleeding
- White or pink mucus discharge
- Abdominal cramps
- Loss of pregnancy symptoms
Blighted ovum
A blighted ovum occurs when a fertilized egg attaches to the uterine wall but fails to develop. The gestational sac releases hCG, but levels don't rise due to the egg not growing. This typically happens in early pregnancy and is often mistaken for a regular period. An early pregnancy test can detect hCG and confirm the condition if trying to conceive.
Ectopic pregnancy
An ectopic pregnancy occurs when a fertilized egg implants in the fallopian tube instead of the uterus. This life-threatening condition can cause the fallopian tube to rupture, leading to severe bleeding. Low hCG levels often indicate an ectopic pregnancy.
Symptoms:
- Initially similar to normal pregnancy.
- Progressing to excessive vaginal bleeding, dizziness, pain during intercourse, and shock symptoms.
How are hCG levels detected?
hCG levels are detected through blood or urine tests.
Blood Tests:
- Qualitative Test: Confirms the presence of hCG but does not measure the amount.
- Quantitative Test (Beta hCG): Measures the precise hCG level in milli-international units per millilitre (mIU/mL).
Urine Tests:
Urine tests, a qualitative test, report a positive or negative hCG result. They detect levels starting at 20–50 mIU/mL, typically around four weeks after conception. At-home urine pregnancy tests are widely available and convenient.
How can low hCG levels be treated?
There is no direct treatment for low hCG levels, as they do not always indicate a problem. However, underlying conditions like ectopic pregnancy or miscarriage can be treated. Consult a doctor for appropriate care. For fertility support, doctors may recommend hCG products to aid conception and ensure a healthy pregnancy.
Summary
Low hCG levels are not always a cause for concern, as they can vary between women. If you're worried, consult a doctor to monitor your hCG levels accurately.
Low hCG levels can still result in a healthy pregnancy and baby. Levels vary widely among individuals.
Low or declining hCG levels may indicate trophoblastic tissue death, potentially signalling an ectopic or nonviable pregnancy.
The body controls hCG levels; there's no way to artificially raise them during pregnancy.
Yes, stress-related hormones can influence hCG secretion and may impact early pregnancy development.
While no fruit directly raises hCG, nutrient-rich foods like oranges, apples, grapes, strawberries, and lean protein can support overall pregnancy health.
