Nervous After BFP: What is Chance of Loss?

[tsippora]

After 2 years TTC (5 failed Clomid/IUIs), I just got my first positive pregnancy test today! It was our first IVF cycle, and my HCG level is 121. Because of the holiday, it will be 5 days before I can test again, and I'm terrified of a chemical pregnancy. Does anyone know how likely that is given my HCG level? I've read 15-30% is the expected pregnancy loss for IVF pregnancies and that frightens me. Would be grateful for anything you know that could put my mind at ease. This is better than 2ww, but not that much!

[k]

Hi Tsippora

Congratulations on your BFP! Your HCG levels sound fine, so hopefully you will be ok. (mine was low, 52 on day 13 and then 81 on day 15, but it stuck around!). I dont know if the miscarriage rate with IVF is higher than normal, or if it is just because we tend to know earlier that we are pregnant than in a 'normal' pregnancy. (Where unless you were testing every month, you might not even know you were pg). They do look more at whether the HCG levels are doubling (or going up by at least 66% according to info Ive read) as to whether it will be ok, so they wont be able to reassure you until your next test. (As you can see, my levels didnt!). I found the wait until my first scan worse than the 2ww! I did feel that things would be ok and also kept doing HPT, which showed stronger everytime.
Take it easy and try not to worry (says she - easier said than done I know). Look forward to hearing your update next week.
Love kim

[tsippora]

Kim, thanks so much for the words of encouragement! I had my test today and it's 720, consistent with a doubling every 24 hours. Can't believe I get to have my scan in just a week! Hard to imagine they will be able to see anything 25 days post fertilization but I guess they know what they are doing. Am hoping things go smoothly until then. So far no symptoms except for a swollen tummy, which is strange given how early it is but the nurse said it was no cause for concern. Now I'm anxious to find out if there are one or two in there -- I would be thrilled with either but am curious! I see you are due in less than two weeks, so best of luck with labor & birth! I'm sure you'll be a wonderful mom.

Love,

Tsippora

[k]

Hi Tsippora

Excellant news on your HCG levels. Hope you get as many babies as you want(!) Enjoy the next 8 months! Come and join the pregnant after treatment board. You will get a lot of support on the first trimester thread. I found it very helpful and reassurring while waiting for my scans.
Thank you for your kind words! I cant believe im nearly there! It has gone quick!
Take care
Love Kim