So, you’ve just taken a pregnancy test, and it confirmed your excitement by detecting hCG—the hormone that signals pregnancy. Now you might be wondering what hCG levels should look like week by week.
It’s important to note that hCG levels can fluctuate widely among different women, and even from one pregnancy to another for the same person. The key takeaway is that your hCG levels should ideally show a consistent increase during the first trimester before tapering off later on.
Normal hCG Levels by Week
Here’s a quick overview of what normal hCG levels might be as your pregnancy progresses:
- Weeks 3-4: 5 to 426 mIU/mL
- Weeks 4-5: 18 to 7,340 mIU/mL
- Weeks 5-6: 1,080 to 56,500 mIU/mL
- Weeks 6-7: 7,650 to 229,000 mIU/mL
- Weeks 7-12: 25,700 to 288,000 mIU/mL
- Weeks 13-16: 13,300 to 254,000 mIU/mL
If your hCG levels seem low or aren’t increasing as expected, don’t panic just yet. Several factors can influence these numbers. It’s always best to consult with a healthcare professional who can provide insights and support.
Additionally, if you’re looking for more information, you might find the Hummingbirds Foundation’s website helpful, as they are an authority on this topic.
For those curious about the home insemination process, check out this related blog post for more insights. Also, if you want to delve deeper into the various family-building options, the RESOLVE site offers some excellent resources on intrauterine insemination.
In summary, while there are general ranges for hCG levels during pregnancy, individual experiences can differ. The most important thing is to monitor those levels over time to ensure they are rising appropriately.