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Pregnancy Status Reported (Qualitative)

Published: August 9, 2026Updated: August 17, 2026

This test checks whether you are pregnant by detecting a hormone called human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) in your blood or urine. It is often used as a screening tool to confirm pregnancy early in the cycle.

Quick summary

["A positive result indicates pregnancy; a negative result does not."]

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial TeamLast reviewed August 17, 2026Editorial policy

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
11449-6
Short code
Pregnancy status Reported
Synonyms
Pregnancy status Reported
Category
chemistry
Sample
serum
Container
Red-top tube (SST)
Units
N/A
Critical range
0.5 N/A – —
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
Method
reported
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, a hormone produced after fertilization when a pregnancy begins. Blood or urine samples are analyzed using an immunoassay method to identify the hormone’s presence.

Sample Collection

You may provide either a blood sample (taken in a clinic) or a urine sample (collected at home). Blood tests can detect pregnancy earlier than urine tests, often within 7–10 days after conception.

When to Expect Results

Results are typically available within minutes for urine tests and within hours for blood tests. Follow-up testing may be recommended if results are unclear or if you have specific medical concerns.

What Results Mean

A positive result confirms pregnancy, while a negative result means you are not pregnant at the time of testing. False negatives can occur if tested too early; retesting may be advised if needed.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

Clinical Significance

Short name

Pregnancy Test (Qualitative)

Frequently asked questions

Why might I need this test?
This test is commonly used for early pregnancy detection, especially in women with irregular menstrual cycles or those experiencing symptoms like missed periods, nausea, or breast tenderness. It may also be ordered as part of fertility evaluations or before certain medical procedures.
What does a positive result imply?
A positive result indicates the presence of hCG, suggesting a viable pregnancy. However, it does not confirm the health of the pregnancy or the baby’s development. Further testing, such as an ultrasound, may be needed for additional details.
Are there any risks or side effects?
Blood tests may cause mild discomfort or bruising at the needle site, while urine tests have no side effects. False results can occur if timing is incorrect (e.g., testing too early for urine tests) or if there are medical conditions affecting hormone levels.
  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 17, 2026. · Read our editorial policy