I did my first round of IVF 10 days ago and today had my pregnancy blood test.  My nurse just called and informed me that my number came back low at 2.6 and that they like to see it above 30.  My doctor wants me to go back on Wednesday for another blood test.

I had 2 embryos transferred and the nurse said that perhaps one embryo survived and on did not.  Could that be why my number is so low?  With it being that low, is it even possible for me to be pregnant?  Also, my period was due to come on Friday, May 15th - still no sign of it coming.

Dear Ekupsco,
2.6 is a low number, most likely associated with a biochemical pregnancy.  The scenario that your nurse suggested is a possibility, but less likely.  Each laboratory has a different cut-off, at which hcg is negative, in some labs 2.6 is considered negative.  If you are currently on progesterone supplementation, that will prevent you from getting your period.  I know this is such a difficult and stressful process.  It is so hard to just wait until Wednesday, but that is unfortunately the best recommendation.  Please keep me posted on your progress and the follow-up levels.
Best Regards,
Keri Greenseid

Keri

Thank you for giving it to me straight!  Sometimes I really wish my nurse wouldn’t sugar coat it and just be upfront with me about all the possiblities.  My results came back today and my hcg went down. I am not pregnant.  The doctor called. and we talked for a bit about the cycle.  My body responded well - they retrieved 20 eggs and 13 fertilized.  Out of that - 9 matured and they transfered the best 2.  Unfortunately the other 7 were not good enough to freeze - so I will have to go through all of this again!  My doctor did suggest that my husband and I try IVF again and we will, but I need a month or 2 off - I am an emotional wreck.  Prior to this we did 3 failed IUI attempts so we are really heartbroken.  I still believe we will be blessed though - have to keep the faith!  I promise to keep you posted when we start our 2nd cycle!

Thanks again!