From the Research
You likely don't need to repeat the beta-hCG test until it reaches zero, as the significant drop in your beta-hCG levels from 467 to 25 over two weeks following your medical termination of pregnancy (MTOP) indicates that the procedure was successful. The reduction in beta-hCG levels is well beyond the expected threshold of a 50% decrease within 48-72 hours after a complete abortion, as indicated by studies such as 1. Most providers consider a level below 5 mIU/mL as negative, and your current level of 25 is approaching this target. Unless you experience concerning symptoms like heavy bleeding, severe pain, fever, or foul-smelling discharge, additional testing is typically unnecessary, as suggested by 2 and 3. Your body will likely clear the remaining hCG naturally over the next 1-2 weeks, as observed in the study 1. However, if you do experience concerning symptoms, contact your healthcare provider immediately as these could indicate complications such as infection or retained tissue. Your provider may have specific protocols they follow, so it's always best to confirm their recommendations for your individual situation. Key points to consider include:
- The significant drop in beta-hCG levels indicates a successful procedure
- Most providers consider a level below 5 mIU/mL as negative
- Additional testing is typically unnecessary unless concerning symptoms are present
- The body will likely clear the remaining hCG naturally over the next 1-2 weeks
- Concerning symptoms should be reported to the healthcare provider immediately.