Introduction Human Chorionic Gonadotropin, commonly known as hCG, is often referred to as the “pregnancy hormone.” Produced by the placenta shortly after a fertilized egg attaches to the uterine lining, hCG plays a vital role in early pregnancy. It’s the hormone that pregnancy tests—both urine and blood—detect to confirm a pregnancy. But hCG isn’t just a marker for pregnancy; its levels provide important insights into how the pregnancy is progressing. While every woman’s body is different, and hCG levels can vary widely, there are general patterns considered “normal.” Knowing what to expect, how hCG is tracked, and when to be…

Introduction One of the first questions that comes to mind after seeing a positive pregnancy test is, “How far along am I?” Knowing the age of your pregnancy isn’t just about satisfying curiosity—it’s essential for prenatal care, scheduling ultrasounds, and determining your due date. Healthcare providers use specific methods to estimate how many weeks pregnant you are. Even though conception may have occurred just a couple of weeks ago, doctors typically count from your Last Menstrual Period (LMP)—not the actual date of conception. This can be confusing, especially for first-time moms, but understanding the process helps you track your pregnancy…