Videos you might be interested in
Videos you might be interested in
Videos you might be interested in
Suggested for you
HCG Levels – Know Twin Pregnancy Better
It is natural for expecting mothers to be full of questions. Since twin or multiple pregnancies are slightly different from single pregnancies, you may be filled with more questions than usual. How does a twin pregnancy differ from a single pregnancy? This, and the particulars of how hCG plays a role in it are discussed in the article below.
Connection Between HCG and Twins
HCG or Human Chorionic Gonadotropin is a hormone that helps in detecting pregnancy. For a single baby, the hCG level varies from 70 to 750 mIU/ml (i.e., milli international units per milliliter, which is a unit to measure hormones). High hCG levels can be found for twins during the early stages for pregnancy. The normal hCG levels for twins is 30% to 50% higher than in single pregnancy- somewhere around 200 to 1750 mIU/ml.
The level of hCG may double every 2-3 days in early pregnancy. Blood tests give best results when taken 7-8 days after ovulation. Most home tests can detect pregnancy 4 to 5 days before the next expected period.
Role of HCG Level in Twin Pregnancy
The body does not produce hCG; rather, it comes purely from the developing baby. Each developing baby secretes some amount of hCG, which doubles in the case of twins.. These hormones work collectively to thicken the lining of the uterus, which supports the baby during pregnancy.
Progesterone is a hormone that stimulates the uterus to prepare for pregnancy. It is produced by the corpus luteum (an endocrine gland within the ovary). The purpose of hCG is to keep progesterone levels in balance until the placenta is developed enough to produce its own progesterone.
When expecting twins, the hCG level increases dramatically, making it faster to detect HCG via blood and urine tests. It doubles every 48 to 72 hours.
The negative result of high hCG levels from the conception twins is that it can lead to more morning sickness during early pregnancy, which means more nausea and vomiting.
When Is HCG Produced?
HCG is produced in the placenta right after implantation. It can be detected in the blood or urine of the woman during early stages of pregnancy through hCG tests. Since the hormone level may fluctuate before periods, it is best to test after one misses their periods.
Sometimes, high levels of hCG along with the symptoms can also indicate a molar pregnancy where the placenta grows abnormally when the sperm and egg meet during fertilisation. In this phenomenon, the sperm fertilises with an empty egg, leading to growth in placental parts, but no baby. This is known as complete molar pregnancy. The other type is partial molar pregnancy, where the mass of the foetus contains both the embryo and abnormal cells that can carry severe birth defects. The healthy embryo, in this case, will end up being consumed by the abnormal mass.
Elevated levels of hCG can also occur due to gestational trophoblastic tumor, a rare form of cancer. If treated early, it is highly curable. Another reason for high levels of hCG can be the beginning of an ectopic pregnancy where the embryo grows outside the uterus, i.e., in the fallopian tube. It must be treated immediately since the fallopian tubes are not designed to hold a growing embryo.
HCG is often injected in the system for women struggling with infertility to increase their levels of progesterone and increase their chances of pregnancy.
Why Is the HCG Level Test Performed?
HCG level test is performed for multiple reasons:
Most commonly performed to confirm pregnancy.
To identify and later diagnose any abnormality such as ectopic pregnancy, where the uterus develops in the fallopian tube.
To diagnose a potential miscarriage.
To identify the levels of the protein PAPP-A in the blood which, when low, increases the chances of the foetus having Down Syndrome.
Does Taking an HCG Level Test Cause Pain?
There are two ways to identify hCG levels in the system – a urine test and a blood test. Except for the pinching sensation of the needle during the blood test, there is no other pain involved. In cases where the individual cannot determine the date of ovulation, it is best to perform either of these tests 10 days after a missed menstrual period.
A urine test or home tests are 97% accurate, provided they are performed correctly. Here, a test sensitive to hCG levels is exposed to the woman’s urine either directly or through a cup containing urine. If the strip changes color, it means the test result is positive.
Here is how you can prepare to take a home urine test for hCG levels:
Read the instructions of your test kit thoroughly to understand how it works.
Check the expiration date of the kit. That can also affect your test results.
Do not drink large amounts of water before taking the urine test, as that may dilute the hCG levels in your urine.
The most accurate results will be achieved with your first urine of the day.
Make sure to take the test at least 7-14 days after your missed period for more accurate results.
A qualitative blood test is the most reliable way to identify the presence of hCG in the blood. Apart from this, quantitative blood tests can be conducted to determine the amount of hCG present in the blood. This test can also identify progesterone levels, monitor pregnancies, or correctly diagnose ectopic pregnancies, cancer, and chances of miscarriage.
People having bleeding disorders can experience problems after the blood tests have been performed. There can be swelling in the veins after the blood samples have been taken. However, these are rare cases, and there are very few chances of having problems due to blood tests.
HCG Levels in Single and Twin Pregnancies
HCG levels differ significantly in case of twin or multiple pregnancies when compared to a single pregnancy. Below is a chart that lists the range of hCG levels in different pregnancies.
HCG Level Chart for Twins and Single Pregnancy
Days from LMP*
hCG Range for Singleton Pregnancy
hCG Range for Multiple Pregnancy
28
9.4-120
9.5-120
33
300-600
200-1,800
36
1,200-1,800
2,400-36,000
40
2,400-4,800
8,700-108,000
45
12,000-60,000
72,000-180,000
70
96,000-144,000
348,000-480,000
*LMP = Last Menstrual Period
How Often Does HCG Multiply?
As the embryo keeps growing and developing into a foetus inside the uterus, the amount of HCG released increases rapidly. It doubles approximately after every 2-3 days.
Your first hCG level that comes out in your test is considered the baseline level. This level is important to doctors because they will use this to determine how your pregnancy is coming along, based on the concept of ‘doubling time’ - the process of the hCG levels increasing during early pregnancy.
As the pregnancy develops, the release of HCG slows down significantly. HCG takes 72 – 96 hours to develop if it is valued at 1200 – 6000 mIU/ml . HCG values above 6000 mIU/ml take four or more days to double. Once the HCG level reaches 1000 – 2000 mIU/ml, a transvaginal ultrasound can be done to see the gestational sac. The growth becomes slower once the HCG level goes above 6000 mIU/ml.
The rise in hCG becomes slower after two to three months, and eventually the hCG level declines and remains consistent for the rest of the pregnancy. Doctors can carefully monitor the development of a pregnancy by way of quantitative blood tests.
A sonogram can be done after hCG levels reach above 6000 mIU/ml as that provides a clearer depiction of pregnancy.
It is also common to have ultrasound screenings when there is a doubt over hCG levels. This can help in assessing and ascertaining the foetal age and growth since blood hCG levels are prone to variations. A transvaginal scan is very common as it is more accurate than an abdominal scan.
Note: Caution must be exercised if hCG levels are low as it can be a sign of a miscarriage, a blighted ovum or an ectopic pregnancy. Hence, regular monitoring must be done to diagnose it.
It is possible to have a healthy baby in spite of low levels of hCG. In such scenarios, the results from an ultrasound after 5 – 6 weeks of gestation are more reliable compared to numbers derived from quantitative hCG test results.
What Can Affect HCG levels?
HCG levels can be affected by the following reasons:
1. Multiple Pregnancies
Each baby inside the mother’s womb releases a normal amount of hCG, which increases the overall hCG level in the body. In cases of twins, triplets or more (commonly experienced by older women), the hCG levels can be double or triple compared to the normal level during single pregnancy.
2. Genetic Defect
Extremely high hCG levels can be caused due to genetic complications during fertilisation. This could indicate that the baby may have Down syndrome. A molar pregnancy can also occur where the placenta overdevelops into an abnormal mass of cells, leading to a mole. This can lead to the death of the baby in the mother’s womb which may or may not get detected.
3. Genetic Complications
Low levels of hCG can be experienced due to genetic complications which could lead to an ectopic pregnancy or a miscarriage. Pregnancy can be complicated or terminated as a result.
4. Cancer
Cancer in the uterus, stomach, liver, lungs, pancreas and large intestine can also raise hCG levels.
5. Influencing Factors
Pregnancy tests performed either too early in the pregnancy or during the later half of the day you plan on taking the test can produce false negative pregnancy results. You can get the most accurate results by testing the first urine of the day.
6. Infertility Treatments
Often, hCG is injected to treat infertile women, which again increases the levels of the hormone in the body.
Do High Levels of HCG Mean That You Will Have Twins?
The presence of higher quantities of hCG in urine can be a sign of twins or multiple pregnancies, but this may not always be the case. The level of this hormone may vary from woman to woman or across pregnancies.
HCG levels see a lot of variation in pregnancies and can be an important determinant in recognising a twin pregnancy. However, it is not the sole determinant to indicate that you will be having twins, as an increased hCG level can be the result of several other conditions as well.
Also Read:
IVF and Twins: What Are My Chances?
Signs and Symptoms of Twin Pregnancy
Twin Pregnancy Diet: What to Eat when Pregnant with Twins
How to Stay Healthy During a Twin Pregnancy Read more
Suggested for you
33 Weeks Pregnant: What to Expect
You are 33 weeks pregnant; the baby is almost on his way and there are only a few more weeks of struggling with diets, medical appointments and unpleasant changes in your body. The third trimester is a time for preparation for the delivery of the baby which will soon be upon you.
Your Baby's Growth during Pregnancy - Week 33
This is the final phase of your baby’s development. His organs, bones, and muscles are completely formed, and with a few ‘finishing touches’ he will be ready. Any remaining nails and hair have fully formed by now. Your placenta is still giving your baby his nutrients and oxygen but that isn’t stopping him from exercising his breathing abilities by drinking the amniotic fluid.
His brain is developing faster than ever, forming more and more connections between the neurons. Your baby has the ability to tell the difference between daytime and nighttime, syncing his sleep-wake cycle with your own. His immunity is stronger than ever, getting protective antibodies from your blood through the placenta.
What is the Baby’s Size
At 33 weeks pregnant the baby’s size should be around the size of a watermelon, measuring more than 42 cm from top to toe. With a weight of over 2 kg, his bones are strengthening while his skin fills in its wrinkles with baby fat except for the skull, which remains pliable so it can safely move through the birth canal. With the lack of space in the uterus, there will be fewer kicks than usual but you should still feel him squirming about.
Common Body Changes
You will experience several new body changes during pregnancy at 33 weeks.
Haemorrhoids
Perineal, anal or rectal bleeding might be due to haemorrhoids, or on rare occasions, a tear in the anal tissue. Ask your physiotherapist for a perineal massage. Your doctor may even prescribe some oral or topical medication to deal with the pain.
Varicose veins
The rising pressure on the lower body by your expanding womb can cause leg veins to enlarge and start throbbing. These are known as varicose veins. If they end up red and stiff, you might have clotting and need immediate medical attention.
Nipple discharge
Your nipples are producing yellowish liquid called colostrum, which is meant for the nutrition of the baby’s first few days. Your nipples will be leaking colostrum all through this week in preparation for your baby. Using absorbent pads inside your bra will prevent the stains from coming into view.
Insomnia
With the combination of all these symptoms, you will not be getting much sleep. Try not to work out or eat food too close to bedtime. Meditation and massages help as well.
Symptoms of Pregnancy at Week 33
The 33rd week is going to be pretty challenging. However, staying aware of any pains or discomfort and knowing remedies for them will help you get through them quickly enough.
Trouble breathing
The swollen uterus is simply not allowing your lungs to expand enough to take in as much air as you would like. Avoid strenuous activity like running, lifting weights, climbing weights, and so on.
Clumsiness
Your increased mass is going to impact your sense of balance, making you clumsier than before. Wear comfortable shoes with flat soles so you can keep some of your balance, at least at home.
Increased metabolic rate
Your body is going to start overheating as it tries to keep up with your increasing energy requirements. Warm skin is the only side effect, and it will pass sooner or later.
Headaches
Lack of hydration can cause your head to spin and throb. Drink minimum 3 liters of water a day, even if it means running to the bathroom every twenty minutes.
Belly at 33 Weeks of Pregnancy
This week you will likely be 10-15 kg heavier than normal, more if you’re carrying twins. Your belly is touching 35-38 cm at this point, so keep the salves handy for any cracked or dry skin. Polyhydramnios, a condition resulting from the increase in amniotic fluid volume, usually shows up around this time. So if your weight has increased more than usual, ask your doctor for advice.
33 Weeks Ultrasound
An ultrasound this week would show you that your baby can open and close his eyes depending on whether he is awake. Baby’s bones are becoming stronger, in addition to his fully developed organ systems. You might want to consider doing a biophysical profile with your ultrasound if you have any risk factors that might lead to complications.
The ultrasound scan will show:
The physical shape and tone of the baby. The doctor will test for any issues with mobility, especially in the limbs.
The volume of amniotic fluid, as higher or lower amounts can create a problematic pregnancy that could result in premature birth or stillbirth.
Foetal breathing motions are tested to make sure they are regular and normal.
What to Eat
Your 33rd week pregnancy food has to include a balanced diet of fresh fruit, vegetables, lean white meats, eggs, dairy, and whole grains.
Consuming food rich in omega-3 fatty acids such as docosahexaenoic acid can help with the neural development of your child.
Research has shown that mothers who consumed fish and flaxseed oils have children who score higher than average on standardised tests. However, avoid fish tainted by mercury such as shark, swordfish, tuna, and mackerel.
Flaxseed is also an option for people who prefer a vegetarian source.
If your diet is incomplete due to budget, time or availability, ask your doctor for prenatal supplements.
Avoid all kinds of alcohol, as research has proven that every single kind has a deleterious effect on pregnancies.
Tips & Care
Here are a few dos and don’ts to keep in mind during this period
Do's
You can attempt the different positions you could take during delivery. Some of them include getting down on your hands and knees, lying down, squatting, or using a birthing chair. Find the position most comfortable for you to ease your way through the contractions when they happen.
Haemorrhoids can cause a lot of pain and embarrassment, but staying hydrated and consuming enough fiber can alleviate the symptoms.
Don’ts
Don’t ignore any change in your baby’s movements. If he stops or slows his kicks and pushes, immediately notify your doctor so tests can be conducted to ascertain the problem.
Varicose veins are a common symptom of your second and third trimesters. Relieving them takes some effort, such as regular exercises like jogging and swimming. Avoid remaining in the same position for too long, even if it is sitting or lying down.
What You Need to Shop for
Breast pumps and bottles are the need of the hour. You might also do well to purchase some maternity clothes, nappies, baby clothing, and a crib for your baby to sleep in. Don’t forget to invest in a pram to move your baby around when you’re too tired to carry him.
At 33 weeks you are very close to delivery. It is best to stock on the essentials in order to avoid rushing once the baby is born.
Previous Week: 32 Weeks Pregnant
Next Week: 34 Weeks Pregnant Read more
Suggested for you
Suggested for you
Don't Forget To Do These Things For Yourself While Nursing
Breastfeeding mothers are among the most careful of people. They have friends and family to recommend them good care for the baby. They are wary about applying anything topically or eating something that trigger an allergic reaction. Every now and then, they check on their moppet to ensure he is just fine. But mom, are you sure your caution extends to yourself too? Are you taking care of your nursing body properly?
To make sure you don’t forget yourself in the rush of things to do, we have created a to-do list. Every item here needs your time and attention while you are breastfeeding. And yes, this is as important as making sure your baby is growing normally!
1. Consume a Nutritious and Wholesome Diet
Throughout your pregnancy, you were told to eat fresh, nutritious food as there was a little baby growing inside you. After the delivery, your responsibility toward healthy eating does not stop! For now is when your baby will turn to you for breastfeeding – something that may continue for several months to come. To regain your strength and ensure that your bundle of joy also grows by leaps and bounds, your diet must be balanced. While there’s no stopping you from consuming a certain food group, make sure you get sufficient proteins, vitamins, carbohydrates, fats and dietary fibre, aside from plenty of water.
2. Keep Your Breast Skin Clean, Healthy and Fresh
Your breasts are going to be your baby’s favourite thing about you for quite some time! For his feeding pleasure as well as for your comfort and hygiene, make sure you wash your breasts well while showering. If your breast skin is sweaty, salty or smells weird, your little picky eater may be turned off. Worse, in your nursing days, your breast area is warm and sugary and this puts you at risk for bacterial growth and infection! Just remember to be gentle and not use any harsh, chemical-based products. After showering, rehydrate your body with a herbal body butter by Himalaya FOR MOMS. It has the healing powers of aromatherapy which work wonders for the skin.
3. Get Back to Exercise – Slowly but Steadily
Exercise during nursing? Before you get alarmed, check this out: exercise releases serotonin, a mood-boosting chemical, into your body which lifts your spirits and energizes you. Now isn’t that how you need to feel during the difficult, early postpartum period? Doctors advise that a few months after birth, you should slowly get back to exercise. This helps the body start toning itself to its pre-pregnancy status. Of course we don’t recommend weightlifting or strenuous running as you’ll still be way too exhausted for that. But walking, gardening, etc. are good both for your body and soul. An important tip: breastfeed before exercising to empty your breasts and feel more comfortable.
4. Devote Extra Attention to Your Nipples
Can you imagine how difficult it would be to feed your infant if your nipples were sore or cracked? Sometimes, improper latching, the wrong positioning and dryness of skin can lead to soreness of nipples. This is not only uncomfortable but can be severe enough to make feeding and pumping quite painful. The solution is simple – extra nipple care. Himalaya FOR MOMS has created a nipple care butter using potent herbs and the principles of Ayurveda. This means you can apply it topically without exposing yourself or your baby to any harmful chemicals.
5. Take Time Out for a Gentle Massage
The very prospect of a massage makes you instantly happier, right? Pregnant women are often advised to massage their abdominal area to prevent the formation of stretch marks. In the postpartum stage too, a massage has multiple benefits. It has been proven to improve blood circulation, trigger lactation, speed up healing, and also make you feel emotionally reassured. What’s more, you have earned yourself a massage, Mom! The only thing to be careful about is the massage oil you use. You cannot risk a product that’s harsh on the skin. Try Himalaya FOR MOMS’ toning massage oil and warm it a little before application. Read more
Suggested for you
Suggested for you
Dr Priyanka Kalra has added a new answer
Guardian of 0 children
4 hours ago
Q. I got skin tags during pregnancy, what should I do for that..any cream recommendation...
Dr Priyanka Kalra
Obstetrician and Gynaecologist
3 hours ago
A. wait a year. see a lot of brands are available to allure you. you should get prescription n adhere to products manuals. avoid too expensive and see to good brands with guarantee ok. for skin lesions avoid rough handling. try to put only medicated ointment. keep up with the doctor who can see and advise. don't miss on any medicine for best results.
Dr Vandan H Kumar has added a new answer
Guardian of 0 children
4 hours ago
Q. what is the purpose of giving d3 syrup for babies
Dr Vandan H Kumar
Paediatrician
4 hours ago
A. you have to continue vitamin d3 supplement till you are not able to take the child in sunlight for at least 10 minutes daily.
before 1 year of age : if you are giving 400 units you have to give 1ml everyday and if you're giving 800 units you have to give 0.5 ml everyday.
the thing is that you have to keep the child in sunlight for at least 10 to 15 minutes daily between 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. for proper vitamin d exposure.
so if you are able to take the child in sunlight you can stop vitamin d supplement.
after 1 year of age vit d drops dosage is 0.7ml once a day from 800units vitamin d drops.
vitamin D is required for many metabolic processes in the child as well as for the growth and development of the bones and development of the tooth
Dr Vandan H Kumar has added a new answer
Guardian of 0 children
2 hours ago
Q. #asktheexperts first cry
Dr Vandan H Kumar
Paediatrician
2 hours ago
A. you can always ask questions related to the health of child and mother in this section and it cand be either related to diet or food or vaccination or any type of medicine goingd on and given by your doctor.
Rashmi has added a new answer
Trying To Conceive
20 mins ago
Q. #asktheexperts spyby ke or item bhi add kare
Rashmi
Mom of a 9 yr 7 m old girl
5 mins ago
A. I am unable to understand your query can you please re-post your question providing all the necessary details as once there is a clarity in the question as to what exactly are you willing to ask accordingly I can help you with that
Nikitha has added a new answer
Guardian of 0 children
19 mins ago
Q. can I wash milk bottles with geaser hot water?
Nikitha
Mom of a 9 yr 5 m old boy
7 mins ago
A. hello yes you can wash it which is absolutely safe and not a problem and in fact so keep it for few minutes would be a better option and also the safest option to this make sure the water is enough or with should be better and also safe when you rinse it for few minutes
Sai Prasanthi R L has added a new answer
Trying To Conceive
18 mins ago
Q. #asktheexperts baby rashes cream
Sai Prasanthi R L
Mom of a 10 yr 2 m old boy
17 mins ago
A. Hello dear parent! Without proper physical examination it is not possible to understand the condition. Get your baby personally checked by your doctor and seek medical advice. Good luck and take care
Check out this new Memory
Sheetal Gopal Negi
Guardian of a 6 m old girl
New Milestone
Happy Christmas 🎄🎁
0 Likes
0 Comment
Check out this new Memory
Shivansh Rana
Mom of a 5 m old boy
New Milestone
0 Likes
0 Comment
Check out this new Memory
Taufique Ahmed
Guardian of a 1 yr 4 m old boy
New Memory
#babyphotochallenge
0 Likes
0 Comment
Check out this new Memory
tanvi chheda
Guardian of a 1 yr 6 m old girl
1 min ago
#stylishbaby
0 Likes
0 Comment
Check out this new Memory
Rashmi Sood
Guardian of a 2 yr 10 m old boy
1 min ago
#babyphotochallenge
0 Likes
0 Comment
Tell us more about yourself get More Personalised
- Infant0 to 6 Months
- Baby6 Months to 2 Yrs
- Toddler2 to 4 yrs
- Kids4-6 yrs
- Big Kids6+ yrs
- Expecting
- Trying to Conceive