What to expect after levels drop

Jessieb · 06-03-2009, 09:23 PM

I just found out today that my hCG levels are dropping. I've kind of known this was going to happen - I spotted and have had bad cramps the last couple of days, plus my hCG levels were always lower than expected even though they kept doubling. I guess I haven't technically miscarried yet, but it will happen soon. My question is what should I expect? Today is 5 weeks and 2 days. My first pg and m/c.

AnotherDreamer · 06-03-2009, 11:06 PM

I'm sorry for your loss. There isn't a specific timetable for how long it will take, unfortunately. And everyone's experiences are different.

You'll probably have heavy cramping, and pass clots. Depending on how far along you were, you may see what was your baby. Just a warning, because you might not. My first pregnancy loss was at almost 5wks, it failed really early on though, and I saw nothing. My second, the baby stopped growing between 5-6wks, and I passed the sac and saw it.

Defintely take something for the cramps once it starts, even if it's just a precaution. My first I miscarried naturally and took some Aleve for the pain.

Again, I am so sorry for your loss.

Jessieb · 06-03-2009, 11:15 PM

Thank you for responding Stephanie. My levels dropped from 398 on Monday to 150 today. I think they have to go down more before it starts, right? If I don't start to bleed by Monday, I have to go in for another hCG test. I guess even if I do start to bleed they want me to come in and be tested.
For awhile they thought it might be ectopic, is that still a possibility? I thought those didn't come on their own??

AnotherDreamer · 06-04-2009, 02:15 AM

With the numbers going down like that, the chances of it being ectopic are slim.

The closer you get to a negative beta, the sooner it will happen. Betas typically go down in the same manner that they'd rise, except in reverse. So, instead of doubling every 24-48 hours, they'd decrease by half. Of course, that's in theory. It doesn't always happen. And if there's any tissue left from the pregnancy, it may not go down. But, since it was early, I doubt that it will be an issue for you. Usually it gets close to zero before the m/c completes itself, but you never know. With my first one, my HCG was at around 500 when I started miscarrying, and negative when I stopped bleeding seven days later.

Given your cramping, I would say it will probably happen soon. I know the worst part for me was waiting for it. It's a tough place, being pregnant but not.

Hang in there.

Jessieb · 06-04-2009, 10:21 AM

Thanks Stephanie. I appreciate your help answering my questions.

Missyinbama · 06-04-2009, 12:25 PM

Just wanted to say how sorry I am that you're going through this. My thoughts are with you.

tcrock02 · 06-05-2009, 11:53 PM

i am so sorry for your loss. i know that nothing anyone says will erase or ease the pain and frustration you are feeling. Just know that you are not alone and there are alot of caring people here to help you.
Miscarriage is different for everyone. I have had 3 and none of them were the same. The wait is the worst part. There are medications to take to help speed things along but usually they want you to wait it out to let your body do what it needs to do on its own. Letme know if i can be of any help.
im sending hugs...**

shannashimmers · 06-09-2009, 02:23 AM

Iam so sorry for your loss. I have had three miscarriages the first two were very early like yours. I usually just cramped some started to spot then just started what seemed like a period. If I wouldnt have known I was pregnant I probably would have thought I was just starting late.

Jessieb · 06-09-2009, 10:20 AM

Thanks everyone. I started the m/c on Saturday. It struck me as sad that it was no more than a heavy AF. That was hard. This very important thing to me and it was just so normal. Oh well. Had another hCG test yesterday and my level was still an 8. So I have to sit this cycle out. That makes me sad too. DH and I really wanted to start again right away. Beginning of July just seems so far away. I know that I should use this time to lose a few more lbs and get back to exercising, but I just can't seem to find the motivation. Just a down couple of days these last few have been.

dstaiger · 06-10-2009, 05:44 PM

jessie - i'm so sorry for your loss. it's only natural to feel down - this is a terrible thing you have to go through. i've been waiting to ttc for a month and a half and still the end of june seems forever away.