Human Chorionic Gonadotropin (HCG) Mass Concentration in Serum or Plasma
This test measures the amount of human chorionic gonadotropin (HCG), a hormone produced during pregnancy, in your blood. It helps confirm pregnancy or monitor conditions like ectopic pregnancy.
["HCG levels can indicate pregnancy or certain reproductive health concerns."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 10565-0
- Short code
- HCG Smn-aCnc
- Synonyms
- HCG Smn-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 order an HCG test to confirm pregnancy, especially if you have missed periods or suspect pregnancy. It may also be used to monitor early pregnancy, diagnose complications like miscarriage or ectopic pregnancy, or evaluate conditions like ovarian tumors or certain cancers that produce HCG.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is needed for this blood test. You may have a small needle inserted into your arm to draw blood. If you’re pregnant, your doctor may recommend testing at specific intervals (e.g., every few days) to track HCG levels.
What the Results Mean
HCG levels rise rapidly in early pregnancy, typically doubling every 48–72 hours. Very low or undetectable levels may suggest early pregnancy loss or other issues. High levels could indicate multiple pregnancies or certain medical conditions. Your doctor will interpret results in the context of your symptoms and medical history.
Common Reasons for Testing
HCG testing is commonly used in pregnancy confirmation, due-date estimation, and monitoring high-risk pregnancies. It may also be part of fertility evaluations or investigations for unexplained vaginal bleeding.
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.
Clinical Significance: HCG Levels and Health
Short name
HCG Test
Frequently asked questions
How often should I get an HCG test if I’m pregnant?
Can HCG levels be affected by other medications?
What if my HCG levels are unexpectedly low?
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