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Fetal Cortisol Concentration by Peripheral Blood (Serum/Plasma) at Term Gestation

Published: August 9, 2026Updated: August 17, 2026

This test measures cortisol, a stress hormone, in your baby’s blood at full term. It may be used to assess fetal health or monitor certain conditions.

Quick summary

["Cortisol levels help doctors evaluate fetal well-being during pregnancy."]

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial TeamLast reviewed August 17, 2026Editorial policy

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
95938-7
Short code
Fetal TCD US Prctl per est GA
Synonyms
Fetal TCD US Prctl per est GA
Category
chemistry
Sample
serum
Container
Red-top tube (SST)
Units
N/A
Ref low
7
Ref high
56
Critical range
— – 500 N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
Method
per-estimated-gestational-age
CPT
84484
SNOMED
302773008
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 Is This Test Done?

Your healthcare provider may order this test if you’re at high risk for complications like preterm labor, fetal distress, or other pregnancy-related concerns. It can also be part of a routine assessment for certain fetal monitoring needs.

What Does the Test Involve?

A small blood sample will be taken from your baby’s umbilical cord or heel during a routine checkup. The sample is collected into a tube and sent to a lab for analysis.

What Does the Result Mean?

Higher-than-expected cortisol levels might signal stress or other underlying issues in your baby. Lower levels could also warrant further investigation. Your doctor will interpret results in the context of your pregnancy and overall health.

What Are the Risks?

The blood draw is quick and generally safe, but there may be minor discomfort or bruising at the site. Rarely, there could be a slight reaction if the baby is very small or has a sensitive cord.

Reference range

Adult males: 7-56 U/L; Adult females: 7-43 U/LN/A

Specimen: serum

No special preparation required. Avoid fatty meals before the test if possible.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

Cortisol is a hormone that plays a role in fetal development and stress response. Elevated levels may indicate stress, while abnormal findings could prompt additional testing or interventions to ensure your baby’s health.

Short name

Fetal Cortisol Level

Frequently asked questions

How often will I need this test?
This test is typically done once during full-term pregnancy, often as part of a specific evaluation rather than a routine check.
Will I need to prepare for this test?
No special preparation is needed. Your baby will be monitored closely during the procedure, and you may be asked to stay with them for observation.
What if my baby has a low cortisol level?
A low cortisol level may raise concerns about fetal health, and your doctor will discuss next steps, which could include additional monitoring or tests to assess your baby’s condition.
  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 17, 2026. · Read our editorial policy