Skip to content

Human Chorionic Gonadotropin (HCG) in Urine

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

This test measures a hormone produced during early pregnancy to help confirm pregnancy or monitor conditions like ectopic pregnancy.

Quick summary

["A positive result often indicates pregnancy, but it can also be elevated in other health conditions."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
2106-3
Short code
HCG Ur Ql
Synonyms
HCG Ur Ql
Category
chemistry
Sample
urine
Container
Sterile urine container
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
10 mL
Stability
Room temperature: 2h, Refrigerated: 24h, Frozen: 7d
Hemolysis max
0
Lipemia max
0
Icterus max
0
TAT
4–24 hours
Order
routine

Why This Test Is Done

Doctors may order an HCG urine test if you suspect you might be pregnant, especially if you’re experiencing symptoms like missed periods, nausea, or breast tenderness. It can also be used to monitor the progression of a pregnancy or check for complications like a miscarriage or ectopic pregnancy.

How the Test Works

The test detects the presence of human chorionic gonadotropin (HCG), a hormone produced by the placenta after implantation. Urine samples are typically collected in the morning for higher accuracy, as hormone levels tend to be more concentrated.

What to Expect Before the Test

No special preparation is usually needed, but drinking extra water the day before can help dilute urine for clearer results. If you’re taking medications that might affect hormone levels, let your healthcare provider know.

What the Results Mean

A positive result (detectable HCG) usually means pregnancy, though very early in pregnancy, results may be lower than expected. Negative results in early pregnancy could indicate a delay in implantation or other issues—follow-up testing may be needed.

Reference range

Non-pregnant: <5 mIU/mLN/A

Specimen: urine

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 Urine Test

Frequently asked questions

What does an elevated HCG level indicate?
Elevated HCG levels are most commonly associated with pregnancy, but they can also occur in conditions like ovarian tumors, gestational trophoblastic disease, or certain cancers. Always discuss results with your healthcare provider for personalized interpretation.
Why might my HCG level be lower than expected?
Lower-than-expected HCG levels can happen in early pregnancy due to timing, but they may also signal complications like a threatened miscarriage, ectopic pregnancy, or a non-viable pregnancy. Your provider will guide further steps based on your situation.
How often should I get retested if my HCG level is low?
If your HCG level is low, your provider may recommend retesting every 48–72 hours to monitor trends. Rapidly declining levels could indicate a problem, while a steady rise typically confirms a viable pregnancy.
  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