Pregnancy Test (Qualitative Urine Human Chorionic Gonadotropin, hCG)
This test checks for the presence of human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG), a hormone produced after implantation of a fertilized egg in early pregnancy. It helps determine whether pregnancy is occurring.
["A positive result suggests possible pregnancy; a negative result means pregnancy is unlikely."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 75869-8
- Short code
- HEDIS 2015-16 Preg Test Excl
- Synonyms
- HEDIS 2015-16 Preg Test Excl
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- Units
- N/A
- Ref low
- 98
- Ref high
- 107
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- CPT
- 82435
- SNOMED
- 110743000
- 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
How the Test Works
The test detects hCG in your urine, which appears after a fertilized egg attaches to the uterine lining. Your body produces increasing amounts of hCG during early pregnancy. The test uses a chemical reaction to identify this hormone if it’s present.
When to Expect Results
Results are typically available within 5 to 10 minutes after testing. Some tests may show a result sooner, but wait until the instructions specify when to check for accuracy.
What to Do with Your Results
If the test is positive, schedule a follow-up with your healthcare provider to confirm pregnancy and discuss next steps, such as a blood test for hCG levels or an ultrasound. If negative, discuss other potential causes with your provider if needed.
Common Reasons for Testing
This test is commonly used as a first-line screening tool for pregnancy, especially in women with irregular menstrual cycles or suspected early pregnancy. It can also be used in certain clinical settings to monitor pregnancy progression or rule out pregnancy in specific circumstances.
Reference range
Adult: 98-107 mmol/LN/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.
A positive hCG test strongly indicates pregnancy, though false positives can occur in rare cases (e.g., certain medical conditions). Elevated hCG levels may also indicate multiple pregnancies (e.g., twins). A negative result means pregnancy is unlikely, but timing matters—results may be negative in early pregnancy if tested too soon. Always consult your healthcare provider for interpretation.
Short name
hCG Urine Pregnancy Test
Frequently asked questions
Can I take this test at home?
What if my results are inconclusive?
How soon after ovulation can I take this 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