Full Form - Human Chorionic Gonadotropin

Produced By –  syncytiotrophoblast of the placenta 

Purpose - nourishes the egg after fertilization and implantation

Is beta hCG and hCG same?

A beta hCG test is a blood test that monitors levels of the hormone human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) present in the body. 

When it can be detected ?

blood test - 11 days after conception 

urine test - about 12-14 days after conception 

Diagnosis of pregnancy using hCG values.

less than 5 mIU/mL - negative 

above 25 mIU/mL - positive

between 6 and 24 mIU/mL - grey area and retest. 

What is unit for hCG measurement?

milli-international units per milliliter(mIU/mL) 

Low hCG level can indicate:

1.     Miscalculation of pregnancy dating

2.     Possible miscarriage or blighted ovum

3.     Ectopic pregnancy 

High hCG level can indicate:

1.     Miscalculation of pregnancy dating

2.     Molar pregnancy

3.     Multiple pregnancy 

What is doubling of hCG?

Typically, the hCG levels will double every 72 hours. 

Peak - first 8-11 weeks of pregnancy 

As you get further along in pregnancy and the hCG level gets higher, the time it takes to double can increase to about every 96 hours. 

Are hCG values too important?

Don’t make too much of hCG numbers. 

Normal pregnancy may have low hCG levels and result in a perfectly healthy baby. 

Ultrasound study has edge over hCG levels. 

Why multiple testing required?

Single hCG reading is not enough information.

Multiple testings of hCG done a couple of days apart give a more accurate assessment. 

Where hCG testing is very important?

Monitoring hCG levels is particularly helpful for women who are undergoing fertility treatments, as it provides the earliest and most accurate indication as to whether or not a pregnancy has developed and is progressing healthily.