INCIID's Pregnancy hCG Beta Chart

Human Chorionic Gondaotropin (hCG) is the "pregnancy hormone" that keeps the corpus luteum producing progesterone when conception occurs. It is this hormone that is measured by Home Pregnancy Tests (HPTs). An hCG beta blood test is much more sensitive than an HPT, and can detect pregnancy as early as 10 days after fertilization.

As a general rule, hCG beta numbers should double every two to three days. However, if you have been given an hCG injection (Profasi, Pregnyl) to trigger ovulation or to lengthen the luteal phase of your cycle, trace amounts can remain in your system as long as ten days after your last injection, and give a false positive on a pregnancy test. Two consecutive quantitative hCG beta blood tests can circumvent this problem. If the level increases by the second test, you are likely to be pregnant.

An hCG level of less than 5 mIU/ml generally indicates you are not pregnant.

Pregnant women usually attain serum concentrations of 10 to 50 mIU in the week following conception. A max is reached by the second to third month, followed by a decrease in the third trimester.