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HCG (Blood)

Does this test have other names?

Human chorionic gonadotropin hormone test, serum pregnancy test

What is this test?

Human chorionic gonadotropin (HCG) is a type of hormone. Both men and women have small amounts of HCG in their body at all times. When a woman is pregnant, her body produces much more HCG than usual. In a healthy pregnancy, the amount of HCG in the blood increases substantially throughout the first three months. This blood test measures how much HCG is in your blood.

This test is the gold standard for determining whether you are pregnant. It shows that you are pregnant before an imaging test, such as an ultrasound, can detect a fetus. Ultrasound can show you that you are pregnant when HCG rises to 1,000 IU/L or greater.

Why do I need this test?

You may need this test if you have vaginal bleeding or cramping. This might indicate that you could have an ectopic pregnancy or could lose your unborn baby. Your healthcare provider might also want to know how your pregnancy is progressing over a few days, so he or she may order this test two or more times, several days apart.

What other tests might I have along with this test?

Your healthcare provider might also order an ultrasound to screen for certain birth defects. Your blood may also be checked for two other hormones, estradiol and progesterone. Your levels of estradiol, a form of estrogen, can show how well the placenta is working. Progesterone levels also rise during pregnancy and can help your healthcare provider figure out if you are at risk for miscarriage or ectopic pregnancy.

What do my test results mean?




How is this test done?


Does this test pose any risks?


What might affect my test results?

This test is quite reliable, but false-positives can be caused by:

  • Certain tumors that make HCG

  • Medicines containing HCG, such as those used in fertility treatments

  • Recent loss of pregnancy; it can take 60 days for HCG levels to return to normal

How do I get ready for this test?


Online Medical Reviewer: Fraser, Marianne, MSN, RN
Online Medical Reviewer: Haldeman-Englert, Chad, MD
Date Last Reviewed: 9/1/2017
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