[The value of hormonal and sonographic parameters in the diagnosis of disordered and normal early pregnancy]

Abstract

In 112 clinical pregnancies after IVF/ET or GIFT, the importance of beta-HCG progesterone and 17 beta-estradiol was evaluated. Additionally, we performed a vaginosonography to confirm an early intrauterine pregnancy. The aim of the study was to define, when a clinical pregnancy can be detected as early as possible and when the differential diagnosis of intact or abnormal pregnancy can be made. By measuring E2 in an HCG substituted cycle, the diagnosis of a clinical pregnancy is possible as soon as day +12 after induction of ovulation. When considering beta-HCG levels alone, the same diagnosis can be made at day +18. Single determinations of HCG level do not offer a satisfactory diagnosis, because of intra-individual variations. A progesterone drop always demonstrates a disturbed early pregnancy. Using a combination of hormonal serial measurements of HCG, E2, progesterone and vaginosonography, the diagnosis of an intact intrauterine pregnancy should be possible as early as day +27 after ovulation induction.