Does normalized HCG indicate that there is no residual tissue in the uterine cavity?

May 10, 2023 Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Lv Aiming
Introduction
A normal HCG level usually indicates that the HCG levels in the body have returned to normal, but it does not necessarily mean that there is no residual tissue in the uterine cavity. Small amounts of residual material without chorionic villi or retained blood in the uterine cavity may still result in normal HCG levels. Therefore, an ultrasound examination is still necessary to confirm whether there is any remaining tissue in the uterus.

HCG normalization generally does not indicate the absence of intrauterine residue; rather, it indicates that HCG levels in the body have returned to normal. The detailed explanation is as follows:

HCG is typically a glycoprotein secreted by trophoblastic cells of the placenta after implantation of the fertilized egg into the endometrium and can be used to detect pregnancy. Normal HCG levels suggest either non-pregnancy or that HCG levels have returned to normal after a miscarriage, but this does not necessarily mean there is no residual tissue in the uterine cavity. Even small amounts of retained material or hematometra (blood accumulation) within the uterus may still present with normal HCG levels. Therefore, an ultrasound examination is still necessary to confirm whether any residual tissue remains in the uterus.

If residual tissue is found in the uterus, it is recommended to actively seek treatment under the guidance of an obstetrician-gynecologist to prevent serious impacts on health.