hCG blood pregnancy test

hCG test · beta hCG · pregnancy blood test · pregnancy hormone test

A blood test for a hormone the body makes during pregnancy. It is more accurate than a home test and shows the hormone level as a number.

To find out about pregnancy early, to follow how it develops, and to check your health after an abortion or a miscarriage.

⏱ Duration: the blood draw itself takes 2 to 5 minutes

Be sure to tell your doctor

The date of the first day of your last period
If you take hormone medicines or are having fertility treatment
If you were recently pregnant, had a miscarriage or an abortion. The hormone can stay for several weeks

When to test. Usually no earlier than 10 to 14 days after possible conception. Too early, the test may be negative.
Food. Strict fasting is usually not needed. It is best done in the morning, with no food for 3 to 4 hours before. Check with the lab.
Repeat tests. If the hormone rise needs to be followed, repeat the test at the same lab. This makes the numbers easier to compare.

You sit down and rest your arm on the armrest
A band is tied above your elbow and you are asked to make a fist a few times
The skin is wiped, and blood is taken from a vein into a tube
The band is removed and a cotton pad is put on the spot. Press it for a few minutes

You can go back to your day right away
Results are usually ready the same day or the next day
Your doctor will explain the numbers. One result alone does not always give the full answer
A small bruise at the spot goes away in a few days

Severe pain low in the belly, especially on one side, fainting, or heavy bleeding: call emergency services right away

When will an hCG test show pregnancy?

Usually 10 to 14 days after conception, about the day your period is late. If it is early and the result is unclear, repeat it in 2 to 3 days.

Why is a blood test better than a pharmacy test?

It is more sensitive and shows an exact number. From how this number rises, the doctor can tell how the pregnancy is going.

Do I need an empty stomach for an hCG test?

Not strictly. But it is best in the morning and not right after eating. Check with the lab.