Pregnancy Test - Beta hCG (Quantitative)
Description
•Pregnancy
This blood test serves the purpose of determining pregnancy and can also be employed for monitoring its progress.
What is beta HCG?
The test examines the presence of a hormone known as human chorionic gonadotrophin (HCG), which is produced in the placenta approximately 6 days after fertilization of an egg. This hormone can be detected in both blood and urine.
What should I expect from the Pregnancy Test – Beta HCG?
This quantitative Beta HCG test provides an indication of whether you are pregnant or not. Furthermore, it can be utilized to monitor the advancement of your pregnancy on a weekly basis.
Compared to a urine pregnancy test, this blood test is more sensitive and enables earlier confirmation of pregnancy.
What distinguishes the blood test from the standard urine test?
While both tests measure beta HCG levels, research has shown that the blood test allows for earlier detection of pregnancy due to its heightened sensitivity.
Typically, the urine test is most accurate when conducted one week after a missed period, as its precision is limited before that time. Additionally, there is a greater possibility of obtaining a false positive result.
The advantage of the quantitative beta HCG blood test is that it can also indicate the progress of the pregnancy. Repeated testing can help determine if the pregnancy is developing as expected and potentially identify any issues.
What potential issues can this test identify?
Low levels of HCG or a declining trend can indicate the possibility of miscarriage or ectopic pregnancy. However, it is important to note that this test is not diagnostic, and a thorough evaluation with your doctor is required.
Elevated levels of HCG or a faster-than-expected increase in levels may suggest multiple pregnancies (e.g., twins) or a Molar pregnancy. However, it is essential to consult with your doctor for a comprehensive assessment, as this test alone cannot provide a definitive diagnosis.
What other purposes does the beta HCG blood test serve?
Fertility clinics may administer HCG injections to enhance the success rate of in vitro fertilization (IVF) or intrauterine insemination (IUI). Consequently, this test can also be utilized to monitor HCG levels throughout the process.
Identifying test conditions
Pregnancy (1 Biomarker)
The presence of the hormone Beta-HCG confirms pregnancy, and the quantitative measurement of this hormone in your blood can determine the gestational age of your fetus.
- Beta-hCG
The test examines the presence of a hormone called human chorionic gonadotrophin (HCG), which is produced in the placenta approximately 6 days after fertilization of an egg. This hormone can be detected in both blood and urine.
