third beta level - should I be concerned?

[Anonymous]

Hi everyone,

I've been going through IVF (DOR) and on our third retrieval we were thankfully able to get a couple blasts. We did a fresh 5-day transfer on 9/9, and had my first beta level on 9/20 which was 280. My second beta on 9/22 showed an HCG level of 825 which was a fantastic rise... but my third beta today (9/24) came in at "only" 1494, not even double while I know the clinic says they look for a 66% rise every 2 days and doubling every 2-3 days, I'm worried that my rise rate has already slowed from almost tripling, to not even doubling.

My RE didn't seem concerned and told me to come in for my ultrasounds on 10/6, but I can't help worry about the slowing rise rate even though it's still within range and meets their 66%/doubling every 2-3 day criteria. Am I just being too overly paranoid? We have wanted this so badly and I want to stay positive, but I am so worried something will happen and I'm waiting for the shoe to drop.

Thank you in advance

[Anonymous]

i think you are fine. i had a low end but rising beta situation and am 20 weeks now. 15dpo (9dp6dt) was only 48! rose to 126 then 380 then 800 then 1500 when i panicked it didn't double. all good now.

[Anonymous]

OP, I think you are fine as well. Those numbers - the doubling - is generally a range. If your third one was below 825, I would maybe worry. But I think you are well on your way. Congratulations!

[Anonymous]

Why aren’t you getting betas every two days? Or are you?

[Anonymous]

I read it slows down once it hits 1000. You are fine OP. Congratulations!! Now go look at cute baby clothes online to take you mind off.

[Anonymous]

Try betabase

[Anonymous]

I did this to myself, too. But HCG doubling slows above 1200
.

In most normal pregnancies at an hCG level below 1,200 mIU/ml, the hCG usually doubles every 48-72 hours. At levels below 6,000 mIU/ml, the hCG levels normally increase by at least 60% every 2-3 days. A rise of at least 35% over 48 hours can still be considered normal.

[Anonymous]

Like others, I drove myself absolutely crazy when my third beta did not double. Using the online beta calculators, posting here just like you, and finally I called my Clinic and requested a fourth draw. Because of my history, they complied. You might see if your doctor is willing to put another lab in for you just for some peace of mind. But, anecdotally, I can say my little non-doubling embryo just finished her breakfast and is playing with her doll house as I type this. Lots of luck to you and congratulations!

[Anonymous]

I have a history of miscarriages (and live births) and refused to come in for beta testing this go around. So much unnecessary stress. It’s out of your hands anyway and knowing your betas solves literally NOTHING. One of my take home babies had horrible betas, two of my miscarriages were textbook.

[Anonymous]

Your RE is not concerned. Follow their lead. Step away from the internet and keep busy until the u/s.

Congratulations. You’re pregnant!

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:Your RE is not concerned. Follow their lead. Step away from the internet and keep busy until the u/s.

Congratulations. You’re pregnant!

+1 to this.
With my 2nd FET I had doubling betas, but they were very low, and my RE was concerned and let me know. Turn out he was right and ultrasound at 6w confirmed ectopic. Follow your RE’s lead. If they aren’t concerned, then try not to worry.

[Anonymous]

Thank you so much everyone for your reassurances, I feel much better. What a crazy ride this is. Crossing my fingers for a successful US and pregnancy!

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:Your RE is not concerned. Follow their lead. Step away from the internet and keep busy until the u/s.

Congratulations. You’re pregnant!

This is the best advice!! My ob told me the exact same thing - stay off the Internet.

And, yes, congratulations!

[Anonymous]

How was your ultrasound, OP?

[Anonymous]

OP here, just had my US today at 6w4d and unfortunately no heartbeat just really sucks. It was measuring at 5w5d, yolk sac and everything but "no cardiac activity." Sigh. Sorry I don't have better news for those who may be in similiar situations in the future looking at this post.. you just never know which direction it will go.

Thanks to everyone for your support, while this one didn't end up the way we wanted I at least relished in the fact I could get pregnant and enjoyed being pregnant for however short it lasted.