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Serum/plasma quantitative measurement of human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) for ectopic pregnancy or miscarriage screening

Published: August 9, 2026Updated: August 16, 2026

This test measures the amount of a hormone called human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) in your blood. It helps doctors check for conditions like an ectopic pregnancy or early miscarriage.

Quick summary

["hCG levels can indicate whether a pregnancy is developing normally or if complications like an ectopic pregnancy may be present."]

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial TeamLast reviewed August 16, 2026Editorial policy

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
103974-2
Short code
Ectopic preg &or bortion
Synonyms
Ectopic preg &or bortion
Category
chemistry
Sample
serum
Container
Red-top tube (SST)
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
Method
reported
Specimen volume
5 mL
Stability
Room temperature: 4h, Refrigerated: 24h, Frozen: 7d
Hemolysis max
500
Lipemia max
1000
Icterus max
500
TAT
4–24 hours
Order
routine

Why This Test Is Done

Doctors may order this test if you have symptoms like unusual vaginal bleeding, pelvic pain, or if you’re at higher risk for complications during pregnancy, such as having had an ectopic pregnancy before. It’s also used during early pregnancy monitoring to track hormone levels.

What to Expect Before the Test

No special preparation is needed. You’ll have a small needle inserted into your arm or hand to draw blood. It usually takes a few minutes, and you may feel a brief pinch.

What the Test Results Mean

Results help determine if a pregnancy is viable or if there are signs of an ectopic pregnancy or miscarriage. Very low or absent levels may mean the pregnancy is not progressing normally.

Common Causes of Abnormal Results

Abnormally low or high hCG levels can occur due to early pregnancy loss, ectopic pregnancy, or other medical conditions. Your doctor will discuss results in the context of your symptoms and medical history.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

hCG Level (Ectopic Pregnancy/Abortion Screening)

Frequently asked questions

How soon after conception can this test detect a pregnancy?
hCG levels typically begin rising after about 6–10 days after fertilization. However, very early tests may not detect a pregnancy until around 7–10 days after ovulation or a missed period. Results may be less reliable in the earliest stages.
What does an abnormally low hCG level mean?
An abnormally low hCG level may indicate an early pregnancy loss, ectopic pregnancy, or a condition affecting hormone production. Your doctor will evaluate the result alongside your symptoms and medical history to determine the next steps.
Can this test be used to confirm a miscarriage?
Yes, hCG levels often drop significantly after a miscarriage. If levels continue to fall or remain very low, it may confirm a pregnancy loss. However, other tests or follow-up may be needed for a full diagnosis.
  1. 1
    MedlinePlus — Laboratory TestsSource
  2. 2
    Lab Tests OnlineSource
  3. 3
    Mayo Clinic — Tests & ProceduresSource

Click any link to access the full source. PubMed Central (PMC) links provide free full-text access.

This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.

Medical Disclaimer

This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.

If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 16, 2026. · Read our editorial policy