Persistent Positive Pregnancy Test After Abortion: Understanding HCG Levels

Question
I had an abortion on Oct. 15th 2008 and I am still spotting brown.  When I brought this to my doctors attention he sent me for blood work which came back positive HCG @53.  I have repeated my blood work several times and it is now down to 23.  I have had no explanation for this from my doctor and I would really love to know what is going on?It's been almost 10weeks.  I feel like i need a second opinon

Answer
Dear Kristina,
It sounds like you have something called retained products.  There might be a tiny piece of tissue that is remaining in your uterus and causing the spotting and the continued low blood level of pregnancy hormones.  First of all, there is nothing bad about this.  It does not cause any harm, and eventually it will pass with a period.  
You have two choices - you can ignore it.  In this case, you might want to stop checking the blood tests.  Your other option is to repeat a procedure.  This certainly wouldn't be medically necessary, but if the discharge is bothering you, or if it just makes you anxious to know that a little lining remains, it is certainly an option.  
I hope this is helpful,
Doctor Joan
Earlyabortionoptions.com
New York City