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Gestational Age Assessment Using Serum Albumin Timing Method (Most Recent Delivery)

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

This test measures the timing of your most recent delivery to help estimate gestational age in early pregnancy monitoring. It assesses albumin levels in serum, which can reflect fetal development stages.

Quick summary

["This test helps track early pregnancy progress by evaluating timing relative to delivery."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
56081-3
Short code
GA (weeks)--at most recent delivery
Synonyms
GA (weeks)--at most recent delivery
Category
chemistry
Sample
serum
Container
Red-top tube (SST)
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
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

What This Test Measures

Albumin is a protein found in your blood that changes levels based on gestational age. By analyzing serum albumin concentration, healthcare providers can estimate how far along you are in early pregnancy, particularly useful for timing around delivery.

Why It’s Done

Doctors may order this test if you’re in early pregnancy (typically weeks 1–12) to confirm or refine gestational age, especially if ultrasound results are unclear or if timing is critical for planning care.

How It Works

A blood sample is taken from you, and albumin levels are measured. The timing of your last delivery is used as a reference to compare how albumin levels align with expected gestational age markers.

What to Expect

You’ll have a quick blood draw, similar to other routine tests. Results are used alongside other methods (like ultrasound) to guide prenatal care decisions.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

Gestational Age Albumin Test (Recent Delivery)

Frequently asked questions

How soon will I get results?
Results are typically available within 1–3 business days, depending on lab processing times. Your healthcare provider will discuss them with you during your next visit.
Can I eat or drink before this test?
You can eat and drink normally before this test, as it’s a blood draw with no special preparation needed. Avoiding alcohol or certain medications may not be required unless instructed by your provider.
Does this test replace ultrasounds?
No, this test is used alongside ultrasounds and other methods to refine gestational age estimates. Your provider will use the combined results for the most accurate care plan.
  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