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Doctor's Assessment Included

Every result includes a professional assessment from a BIG-registered doctor. For treatment decisions, discuss your results with your GP.

Fertility

b-hCG (Human Chorionic Gonadotropin)

b-hCG is a key hormone in women's reproductive health. Monitoring b-hCG levels supports pregnancy confirmation, early pregnancy tracking, and broader hormonal health assessment.

What It Measures

This test measures the level of beta-human chorionic gonadotropin (b-hCG) in your blood. b-hCG is a hormone produced by the placenta during pregnancy and can also be produced by certain types of tumours.

Why It Matters

For women, b-hCG is one of the first indicators of pregnancy and plays a central role in monitoring early pregnancy progression. Understanding your b-hCG levels can help you and your healthcare professional assess your reproductive and hormonal health.

When to Test

Testing is commonly performed when pregnancy is suspected, to monitor early pregnancy progression, or as part of a fertility assessment. It may also be requested when a healthcare professional wants to evaluate certain tumour markers.

Symptoms

Low Levels

Low b-hCG levels outside of pregnancy are considered the reference range and are not typically a cause for concern. During pregnancy, you should consult a healthcare professional for interpretation of results.

High Levels

Elevated b-hCG levels most commonly indicate pregnancy. However, unusually high levels during pregnancy may indicate a molar pregnancy or multiple pregnancies. Outside of pregnancy, elevated levels may be associated with certain germ cell tumours or other conditions. Consult a healthcare professional for interpretation of results.

Lifestyle Tips

b-hCG levels are primarily influenced by physiological processes and cannot be meaningfully altered through lifestyle changes. If you are trying to conceive, maintaining a balanced diet, managing stress, and regular check-ups with a healthcare professional can support overall reproductive health.

Frequently Asked Questions

How early can b-hCG detect pregnancy?
A blood test for b-hCG can detect pregnancy as early as 6 to 8 days after ovulation, which is typically before a missed period. However, levels vary between individuals and a healthcare professional should interpret the results.
Can b-hCG levels indicate twins or multiples?
Higher-than-expected b-hCG levels in early pregnancy may be associated with a multiple pregnancy, but this is not definitive. An ultrasound is the standard method to confirm a multiple pregnancy.
Why might b-hCG be tested outside of pregnancy?
b-hCG can serve as a tumour marker. Elevated levels outside of pregnancy may be associated with certain germ cell tumours and other conditions. A healthcare professional will determine the appropriate follow-up.

Test Products

This marker is included in the following test panels.