Human Chorionic Gonadotropin (hCG) in Serum/Plasma

Why This Test Is Done

Doctors order an hCG test to confirm pregnancy, especially in early stages when other symptoms may not yet appear. It’s also used to monitor high-risk pregnancies, diagnose conditions like molar pregnancy, or evaluate fertility treatments. Sometimes, it’s checked after miscarriage or ectopic pregnancy to ensure proper recovery.

What to Expect Before the Test

You can have this test at any time of day. If you’re pregnant, your doctor may recommend testing at least once during early pregnancy, often around 6–11 weeks. If not pregnant, timing isn’t critical, but results may be lower or undetectable.

What the Results Mean

Results are reported in international units per milliliter (IU/mL). A positive result (above a certain threshold) confirms pregnancy. Very low or zero levels may mean no pregnancy or an early miscarriage. Abnormally high levels could signal complications like a molar pregnancy.

Common Causes of Abnormal Results

Low or absent hCG may indicate no pregnancy, an early miscarriage, or a failed fertility treatment. High levels can suggest a molar pregnancy, ectopic pregnancy, or sometimes non-pregnancy-related conditions like certain tumors.