What is the Beta hCG Test?
The Beta hCG test measures the levels of the Human Chorionic Gonadotropin (hCG) hormone, specifically the beta protein of hCG. After 6 to 11 days after the fertilized egg attaches to the uterine wall, a hormone known as hCG—Human Chorionic Gonadotropin—is released. The placenta produces the hCG hormone.
It takes approximately two weeks for hCG to be detectable in urine. The levels of hCG increase every 2 to 3 days after the fertilized egg is attached, indicating the progression of pregnancy.
Other Names of hCG Test
- Quantitative hCG test
- Quantitative serial beta-hCG test
- Quantitative blood pregnancy test
- hCG blood test
- Repeat the quantitative beta-hCG test
Secure your health with a second opinion. Make informed decisions and book your appointment today!
Get A Second OpinionWhat is the Beta hcg Test Used for?
The Beta hCG test is mainly utilized to confirm pregnancy and estimate fetal age. Additionally, it can diagnose the possibility of a miscarriage and screen for down's syndrome.
Apart from its primary purpose, the Beta hCG test can also be employed to assess cancers such as
- Breast
- Lung
- Ovarian or
- Uterine Cancer.
Furthermore, it can aid in the diagnosis of non-cancerous conditions such as
- Ulcers,
- Inflammatory Bowel Disease, and
- Cirrhosis.
Why do I Need the Beta hCG Test?
You may require a Beta hCG test to know if you are pregnant. Some doctors advise the Beta hCG test to screen the fetus and understand the age of the fetus.
If you are undergoing any fertility treatment, your fertility doctor will order a test just before your period to know if the treatment is successful.
What happens during the Beta hCG Test?
hCG levels are detected in the blood or urine. A healthcare expert will take a blood or urine sample. To determine the hCG hormone level.
The specialist will tie an elastic band over the biceps to expose the vein and draw blood. It is a standard method of blood testing.
How do I Prepare for a Beta hCG test?
The Beta hCG test requires no special preparation. This test does not even require you to fast. This test can be administered in two ways. The first is by urine, and the second is by blood. Fasting is not required for either of these. Essentially, keep in mind that you should avoid biotin-rich foods.
Does Beta hCG Confirm Pregnancy?
Confirming Pregnancy is one of the primary purposes of the Beta hCG test as it detects the human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) hormone secreted by placental cells.
Once the fertilized egg attaches to the uterine wall, the placenta forms, leading to hCG production; if the hCG levels are elevated, the healthcare provider can help identify potential issues, such as an ectopic pregnancy that develops outside the uterus.
Ready to take control of your health journey? Book your appointment now and start your path towards wellness today!
Book an AppointmentFrequently Asked Questions
The Beta hCG test can be taken approximately two weeks after the fertilized egg attaches to the uterine wall.
Yes, some medications, such as fertility drugs or certain types of cancer treatments, can affect the Beta hCG test results.
The urine or blood Beta hCG tests are not painful.
No, stress does not affect hCG levels. The successful fertilization of the egg results in the formation of the hCG hormone. That has nothing to do with the woman's stress levels.
If the hCG levels are high, there could be other causes, such as stomach problems or, in some cases, cancer. The doctor will need to do a few tests to determine why the hCG levels are so high. You don't need to panic over the hCG levels; they're just statistics.
Yes, the Beta hCG test can diagnose certain cancers, such as testicular and ovarian cancer.
The cost of a Beta hCG test begins approximately from Rs. 500/-
