In this episode of the Conceive Baby Podcast, I speak with Dr Scott Pearce about early pregnancy and the role of HCG and progesterone.

Early pregnancy can be such a wonderful yet nerve wracking time.  Waiting on that next test result, looking for symptoms and so many questions.  What exactly is HCG?  How reliable is an at home test over a blood test?  What level should it be?  What should my progesterone level be?  How do you know if it’s too low or too high and what does that mean?  What changes are normal?  How quickly should my HCG be rising?  Is it rising quickly enough? 

We answer all these questions and more in this informative episode.  So if you’re currently in early pregnancy or hope to be soon, then this is for you!

Key Takeaways:

• HCG's Role: HCG, produced by the placenta, supports early pregnancy by stimulating progesterone production. Monitoring its levels helps assess pregnancy health.
• Testing HCG: HCG levels can be tested as early as ten days post-conception. Home urine tests are reliable, but blood tests provide detailed quantification.
• Interpreting HCG Levels: Focus on the rate of increase rather than absolute values. Ideally, HCG should double every 48 hours in early pregnancy.
• Progesterone Importance: Progesterone supports the pregnancy by maintaining the uterine lining. Supplementation may be necessary in some cases of fertility treatment or recurrent miscarriage.
• When to Seek Help: Spotting can be normal, but cramping paired with heavy bleeding should prompt a medical consultation. An early ultrasound can provide vital reassurance

Dr Scott Pearce is a caring, approachable, and experienced fertility specialist, gynaecologist and obstetrician who spends quality time with his patients to explain, reassure and answer questions.

Scott completed advanced laparoscopic, fertility and IVF training at Monash health and The Womens’ hospital. He is a Director of Monash Endosurgery, senior trainer of gynaecological surgery at Monash Health and an accredited Australasian Gynaecological Endoscopic Surgery Society trainer for advanced laparoscopic surgery.

Scott thoroughly enjoys being an obstetrician, providing immense joy helping to create families. He has delivered over 3500 babies.  How wonderful.  Welcome Scott!

Mentioned in this episode:

Ultimate Egg Quality Guide