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Human Chorionic Gonadotropin (hCG) Quantitative Test

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

This test measures the amount of human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG), a hormone produced by the placenta during pregnancy. It helps track early pregnancy progression or detect conditions like ectopic pregnancy.

Quick summary

["The hCG test is critical for pregnancy monitoring and diagnosing potential complications."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
43981-0
Short code
HCG Intact adj MoM SerPl
Synonyms
HCG Intact adj MoM SerPl
Category
chemistry
Sample
serum
Container
Red-top tube (SST)
Units
N/A
Ref low
0
Ref high
5
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
CPT
84702
SNOMED
275917004
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

Your healthcare provider may order an hCG test to confirm pregnancy, assess its viability, or investigate symptoms like unusual bleeding, severe morning sickness, or unexplained pain. It’s often used in early pregnancy screening or during fertility treatments.

How the Test Works

Blood hCG tests are usually drawn from a vein in your arm. Urine tests involve collecting a sample in a cup. Results are compared to standard ranges to determine hormone levels.

What to Expect Before the Test

For blood tests, you may need to fast for a few hours before the procedure. For urine tests, no special preparation is required, but timing can affect results (e.g., morning urine is often preferred). Always follow your provider’s instructions.

What the Results Mean

Low or undetectable levels may indicate early pregnancy loss, miscarriage, or an ectopic pregnancy. Rising levels (especially in blood tests) confirm a healthy pregnancy. Abnormally high levels could signal conditions like molar pregnancy or certain cancers.

Reference range

Non-pregnant: <5 mIU/mLN/A

Specimen: serum

No special preparation usually required. Stay well hydrated. Inform your healthcare provider of all medications and supplements you are taking.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

hCG Level

Frequently asked questions

When might I get my results?
Results are typically available within 1–3 business days for blood tests and 1–2 days for urine tests, depending on lab processing. Your provider will discuss findings with you during a follow-up visit.
Can I take anything before or after the test?
No special actions are needed after a blood test, but avoid heavy meals or alcohol before the draw. For urine tests, avoid excessive fluids 2–3 hours before collection if timing is critical. Always confirm instructions with your provider.
Is this test covered by insurance?
Insurance coverage depends on your diagnosis or reason for testing. Pregnancy-related tests (like hCG) are often covered under prenatal care plans, but confirm with your insurer or provider for specifics.
  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