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Human Chorionic Gonadotropin (hCG) in Serum or Plasma

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

This test measures the amount of human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG), a hormone produced during pregnancy, in your blood or body fluids.

Quick summary

["hCG helps confirm pregnancy and monitor early pregnancy health."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
110662-4
Short code
HCG Msmt SerPl
Synonyms
HCG Msmt 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

What Is hCG Used For?

hCG is primarily used to detect pregnancy and assess its progression. It can also help diagnose conditions like ectopic pregnancies or molar pregnancies, or monitor fertility treatments. Early in pregnancy, hCG levels rise sharply and can be detected in blood or urine tests.

When Might You Need This Test?

Your healthcare provider may order an hCG test if you suspect you’re pregnant, have missed a menstrual period, or experience symptoms like nausea, fatigue, or unusual bleeding. It may also be used during fertility treatments or to check for pregnancy-related complications.

What to Expect Before the Test

No special preparation is usually needed for a blood hCG test, but you may be asked to fast for 8–12 hours before the draw. For urine tests, you may need to collect a sample at home or in a lab. Follow your provider’s instructions carefully.

What Happens During the Test

A healthcare professional will draw blood from a vein in your arm for a blood test. For a urine test, you’ll provide a sample in a clean container. The sample is then sent to a lab for analysis.

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

How Soon After a Positive Pregnancy Test Can I Get Results?
Blood hCG tests can detect pregnancy as early as 6–10 days after ovulation, sometimes even before a missed period. Urine tests may take longer to confirm pregnancy accurately.
What If My hCG Levels Are Too Low?
Low hCG levels may suggest a problem with early pregnancy, such as a miscarriage or ectopic pregnancy. Your provider will discuss next steps, which could include repeat testing or additional imaging.
Can I Take Anything Before My hCG Test?
For blood tests, fasting is often recommended, but always follow your provider’s instructions. For urine tests, avoid certain medications or foods that might interfere with results.
  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