The hCG Curve
In a viable early pregnancy, hCG typically doubles every 48–72 hours when levels are below 6,000 mIU/mL. Above 6,000, doubling slows to 72–96 hours. hCG peaks between weeks 8–11 (often reaching 100,000–200,000 mIU/mL) and then gradually declines for the remainder of pregnancy, plateauing around 20,000–50,000 in the second trimester.
When Doubling Time Is Abnormal
A doubling time over 72 hours (when hCG is under 6,000) may indicate ectopic pregnancy, impending miscarriage, or simply measurement variation. A single slow result is not diagnostic — trends over multiple draws matter more. About 15% of normal pregnancies have slower-than-expected hCG rise.
The Discriminatory Zone
When hCG reaches 1,500–2,000 mIU/mL (the "discriminatory zone"), a gestational sac should be visible on transvaginal ultrasound. If nothing is seen at this level, ectopic pregnancy must be excluded. By 7,500 mIU/mL, a yolk sac is typically visible, and fetal heartbeat detection becomes possible around 10,000–20,000 mIU/mL.
Limitations
hCG levels vary enormously between normal pregnancies. A single value cannot determine viability. Doubling time is more meaningful than absolute numbers. This calculator provides reference ranges from peer-reviewed medical literature but should never replace clinical evaluation.