Human Chorionic Gonadotropin (hCG) in Serum or Plasma
This test measures the amount of human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG), a hormone produced after pregnancy begins. It’s often used to confirm pregnancy or monitor conditions like ectopic pregnancies.
["hCG helps track early pregnancy or detect potential pregnancy complications."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 19080-1
- Short code
- HCG SerPl-aCnc
- Synonyms
- HCG SerPl-aCnc
- 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 Is This Test Done?
Doctors may order an hCG test to confirm pregnancy, especially if you’re experiencing symptoms like missed periods, nausea, or unusual vaginal bleeding. It can also be used to screen for conditions like molar pregnancy or ectopic pregnancy, or to monitor fertility treatments.
When Might You Need This Test?
You might need this test during early pregnancy to check if the pregnancy is progressing normally. It can also be done in cases of unexplained vaginal bleeding, infertility issues, or when monitoring certain medical treatments.
What Does a High or Low Level Mean?
High levels of hCG are typically associated with pregnancy, but very high levels could indicate complications like a molar pregnancy. Low or absent levels may suggest no pregnancy or a failed implantation.
How Is the Test Performed?
A blood sample is taken from a vein in your arm. The sample is sent to a lab where it’s analyzed to measure the hCG hormone levels. No special preparation is usually needed, but you may be asked to avoid certain medications or activities before the test.
Reference range
Non-pregnant: <5 mIU/mLN/A
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
What are the normal results for this test?
Can I get pregnant if my hCG test is negative?
How soon after conception can I get an accurate hCG test?
Sources
- 1
- 2Lab Tests OnlineSource
- 3
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.
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