1. What is HCG Weeks Calculation?

The HCG Weeks Calculation estimates gestational age based on human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) levels in maternal blood. This formula provides an approximate timeframe for pregnancy development during early gestation.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the HCG weeks formula:

Where:

• \( hCG \) — Human chorionic gonadotropin level (mIU/mL)
• \( \log_{10} \) — Base-10 logarithm
• 2 — Baseline weeks constant
• 0.4 — Conversion factor for logarithmic scaling

Explanation: The formula accounts for the exponential rise of hCG levels during early pregnancy, converting the logarithmic growth into gestational weeks.

3. Importance of Gestational Age Estimation

Details: Accurate gestational age estimation is crucial for monitoring fetal development, determining expected delivery date, and identifying potential pregnancy complications.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter hCG level in mIU/mL. The value must be greater than 0. For best accuracy, use serial hCG measurements and consult with healthcare providers.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: How accurate is hCG for dating pregnancy?
A: hCG levels provide rough estimates in early pregnancy but become less reliable after 6-7 weeks when ultrasound becomes more accurate.

Q2: What are normal hCG ranges by week?
A: hCG doubles approximately every 48-72 hours in early pregnancy, ranging from 5-50 mIU/mL at 3 weeks to thousands by 5-6 weeks.

Q3: When should hCG levels be measured?
A: Typically measured when pregnancy is confirmed, for dating in very early pregnancy, or when monitoring for potential complications.

Q4: Are there limitations to this calculation?
A: Yes, individual variations, multiple pregnancies, and pregnancy complications can affect hCG levels and dating accuracy.

Q5: Should this replace ultrasound dating?
A: No, ultrasound remains the gold standard for pregnancy dating. hCG calculations should be used as supplementary information.