Faint Positive Pregnancy Test & Low hCG Levels: What Does It Mean?

Question
I took a hpt on 4-10 and it came back positive but the line was faint. i took another hpt on 4-11 and it came back positive but the line was faint. i called the doctor and went for a blood test and it came back my hcg level was 44...and come bakc in 2 weeks for more blood work. what does this mean is 44 and ok number? please help im scared...i had a miscarriage on 1-11-07. and i hope everything is ok  

Answer
Dear Susan,

In early pregnancy, the range for "normal" hCG level is very wide. You did not mention when your LMP was, so I cannot specifically say whether this would be an "ok" number for the stage of pregnancy you are in.

At 3 weeks from LMP, the expected levels would be 5 - 50 mIU/ml. At 4 weeks from LMP: 5 - 426 mIU/ml; at 5 weeks from LMP: 18 - 7,340 mIU/ml; at 6 weeks from LMP: 1,080 - 56,500 mIU/ml.

Your doctor is likely wanting to wait a couple of weeks and will have you come back in, re-draw the hCG, and make sure that it is rising appropriately. Until then, all you can do is relax and try to keep yourself as healthy as possible.

I hope this information has helped you and answered your question. I wish you well.

Brenda