Will HCG levels still rise after a miscarriage?

Nov 11, 2025 Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Zhang Lu
Introduction
After a miscarriage, HCG levels typically do not rise; instead, they gradually decrease and usually return to normal within 2–3 weeks after the procedure. If HCG levels continue to rise or decline slowly after a miscarage, it may indicate abnormal conditions such as retained products in the uterine cavity or ectopic pregnancy. If you experience rising HCG levels, increased vaginal bleeding, or worsening abdominal pain, prompt medical attention is recommended.

After a miscarriage, HCG levels typically do not rise; instead, they gradually decrease and usually return to normal within 2–3 weeks after the procedure. If HCG levels continue to rise or decline slowly after a miscarriage, this may indicate abnormal conditions such as retained tissue in the uterine cavity or an ectopic pregnancy. If HCG rises, vaginal bleeding increases, or abdominal pain worsens, prompt medical attention is recommended.

Under normal circumstances, following a miscarriage, embryonic tissue is expelled, trophoblastic activity decreases, and HCG secretion diminishes. As a result, blood HCG levels show a continuous downward trend, with a significant weekly reduction until they return to the normal range—this is one of the key indicators of a successful miscarriage.

If HCG levels fail to drop or even increase after a miscarriage, it is often due to residual embryonic tissue remaining in the uterine cavity, which continues to secrete HCG. It could also be due to an ectopic pregnancy where trophoblastic cells have not completely died off and continue producing HCG. In such cases, further evaluation is necessary to determine the cause and initiate appropriate intervention.

After a miscarriage, adequate rest should be ensured, avoiding fatigue and strenuous physical activity. Maintain good hygiene of the external genitalia and change sanitary products frequently. Nutritionally, consume sufficient high-quality protein and vitamins to support recovery. Follow your doctor’s instructions for regular HCG follow-up tests to monitor changes in HCG levels.