Expert: Scott Roseff, MD, FACOG - 3/1/2005

Question
I have undergone three IVF treatments. My first attempt, I had no luck (6 tranferred). 2nd attempt--(5 transferred) I was pregnant but with low HCG level of 28 which continued to drop after each subsequent blood test. This most recent attempt, I tested positive (4 transferred) with a HCG level of 11, then 19, then 28 and last test, 32. The nurse said that my levels were just too low for this pregnancy to go anywhere. I will continue my bloodwork to rule out ectopic pregnancy but they said hopefully my body will take care of everything itself and to expect my levels to start dropping. 1) What if the levels keep slowing rising? What does this mean? 2) Why do these low levels keep happening? Is there any hope that I can have a successful pregnancy? 3) In the future, is there anything that can be done to increase my HCG levels? Looks like I'm heading for another miscarriage. 4) Do I even attempt to try this again? I am 42 years old, I'm in great shape, have no female complications, but of course, I am quite frustrated with my results.  

Answer
Hi Claire,

Sorry to hear about your losses....

To answer:
1) If they keep slowly rising it means that pregnancy tissue is growing somewhere in your body. An abnormally slow rise indicates an "unhealthy" or abnormal pregnancy.
2) The answer to this can only be determined, or be best determined, after you would undergo a comprehensive history, physical examination, extensive record review, and review of all tests to date. If you're interested in coming here for a second opinion (as many women with recurrent pregnancy loss do from other states and other countries, please e-mail me at doc@reproendo.com).
3) The hCG levels are what they are. In other words, if it's a "bad" pregnancy then nothing can be done to improve the quality of the pregnancy once a bad pregnancy is established. There may, however, be things that can be done to prevent another disaster BEFORE it happens, and that would/could only be determined after a consultation.
4) In my expert opinion, you shouldn't attempt this again unless you're undergone a second opinion consultation with a qualified, board certified RE who is renowned for the modern diagnosis and treatment of recurrent pregnancy loss (as I am).  If you can't find an expert near you, please feel free to come here and see me.

Sincerely,
Dr. Roseff - Director of W.E. C.A.R.E. in West Orange, NJ
PERSONALIZED/Individualized Successful care by a Board Certified Specialist....
www.reproendo.com/different.htm
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