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24-Hour Urinary Human Chorionic Gonadotropin (hCG) Mass Concentration

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

This test measures the amount of human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG), a hormone produced during pregnancy, in your urine over a 24-hour period. It helps assess whether pregnancy is occurring or if hCG levels are abnormal.

Quick summary

["This test helps diagnose or monitor pregnancy-related hCG levels in urine over time."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
29156-7
Short code
LH 24h Ur-aCnc
Synonyms
LH 24h Ur-aCnc
Category
chemistry
Sample
urine
Container
Sterile urine container
Units
N/A
Ref low
1.5
Ref high
9
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
CPT
83002
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

Your healthcare provider may order this test if you are pregnant and experiencing symptoms like unusual bleeding, severe morning sickness, or if your hCG levels from previous tests are not following expected patterns. It can also be used to monitor hCG levels in cases of suspected ectopic pregnancy or other pregnancy complications.

What to Expect Before the Test

No special preparation is needed. You will collect all your urine over a 24-hour period in a container provided by your lab. It’s important to start and end the collection at the same time each day to ensure accuracy.

What Happens During the Test

The collected urine sample is sent to a lab where it is analyzed to measure the total hCG concentration. The test measures the hormone’s mass in your urine rather than its concentration in a single sample.

Possible Results and Interpretation

Results are compared to known ranges for pregnancy and non-pregnancy states. High levels may indicate pregnancy, while very low or absent levels may suggest no pregnancy or other conditions. Your healthcare provider will discuss the results with you based on your medical history and symptoms.

Reference range

Follicular: 1.5-9.0 mIU/mLN/A

Specimen: urine

For females: inform if menstrual cycle status. For certain tests, timing within menstrual cycle may matter.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

24h Urine hCG

Frequently asked questions

What does a positive result mean?
A positive result typically indicates the presence of hCG in your urine, which is strongly associated with pregnancy. However, other conditions (like certain tumors) can also produce hCG, so your healthcare provider will consider your symptoms and medical history to interpret the result.
Can I drink water before collecting urine for this test?
Yes, you can drink water as usual, but avoid excessive fluid intake to ensure your urine is concentrated enough for accurate measurement. Follow the instructions provided by your lab technician carefully.
How soon will I get my test results?
Results are usually available within a few days to a week, depending on your lab’s processing schedule. Your healthcare provider will contact you to discuss the findings once they are ready.
  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