HCG determination test at home. What does a hCG blood test show and how to prepare for the test? It’s better to do a hCG test
Upon conception, significant hormonal changes occur in the female body. Active production of hCG begins - this is a special hormone responsible for hormonal changes during fetal development. Therefore, to confirm pregnancy, a woman first takes an hCG test. It should be noted that even men undergo blood testing for hCG. Therefore, it is necessary to consider all the nuances and features of conducting a blood test for hCG (where it can be taken, who needs to take the test, stages of preparation, what decoding the test means).
The components of the fertilized egg begin to produce a special hormone. Once attached to the wall of the uterus, this hormone is responsible for stimulating the development of the placenta. However, hCG is not only a pregnancy hormone; in addition, it can warn about the development of cancer (in this case, the hormone is also produced in men). Diagnosis of oncology includes a mandatory blood test for hCG.
Reference! Scientists have not fully explored the question of whether hCG could be a consequence of the development of cancer. That is why many foreign countries have limited free access to homeopathic medicines and some dietary products that are sold in pharmacies (contain hCG).
If we consider hCG through the prism of pregnancy, then confirmation of conception, thanks to a blood test, can be obtained as early as 3-4 days after intercourse. Seven days after birth, the analysis confirms the absence of hCG, both in the blood and in the urine.
Functions of hCG during pregnancy:
- in the early stages of fetal development, it is responsible for the preservation of the corpus luteum, as well as for the active production of progesterone;
- accelerates the processes of estrogen production;
- promotes fetal development by stimulating the functioning of the adrenal glands;
- prepares the immune system to accept the fetus (prevents fetal rejection);
- if the embryo is male, then hCG stimulates the production of testosterone in it by stimulating Leydig cells.
Throughout pregnancy, a woman must systematically undergo a blood test for hCG. Thus, the doctor can monitor pathological changes by comparing hormone levels. An increase in hCG concentration may confirm abnormal fetal development, cancer, or the development of diabetes mellitus in a pregnant woman. In addition, when comparing indicators in the early stages, it is possible to determine a pathological ectopic pregnancy.
What if hCG levels are elevated in men?
For men, an increase in indicators means a tumor disease (seminoma, teratoma). Mandatory observation by a specialist and a detailed examination of the genitourinary system are necessary. It is worth considering that a decrease in hCG can also lead to undesirable consequences.
Reference! Determination of pregnancy through the use of a pregnancy test (detection of stripes) is based on the level of hCG, only in this case the test material will be urine. Pregnancy can be determined using a test only after one week.
Types of analyzes
Laboratory practice confirms only two main types of analysis - total and free b-hCG. Each of them is used for different purposes.
Total hCG | Free b-hCG |
---|---|
This analysis involves examining venous blood to confirm pregnancy in the first days. If there are no pathological processes in the body, then the hormone level will double every two days. The maximum hCG level is observed in the eleventh week. Then the concentration of the hormone will gradually decline. The second trimester of gestation also requires analysis, but it is carried out in the form of screening | Diagnosis of testicular and neoblastic formations includes a test for free b-hCG. In addition, in the first trimester, this analysis is performed during screening, thus excluding pathological Edwards and Down syndromes. If the test results are positive, then the pregnant woman is at risk. Special indicators of the purpose of this analysis are: Radiation exposure of a pregnant woman; |
When is the test given?
As already indicated, hCG analysis is indicated not only for pregnant women throughout their entire period, but also for men in the diagnosis of tumor-like testicular neoplasms. Indicators indicating the absence of neoplasms and other pathologies should not exceed 5 mU/ml.
Reasons for the need for testing in women:
- Confirmation of conception.
- Ovarian dysfunction, which manifests itself in the form of delayed menstruation.
- Delay due to stressful situations, infections.
- Detection of trophoblastic tumors.
Attention! HCG analysis throughout pregnancy is necessary to monitor the dynamics of the child's development, as well as to detect ectopic pregnancy.
Preparing for the test
For the study, only venous blood is required, which is donated early in the morning on an empty stomach. The last meal should be no earlier than eight hours before the collection of biological material. If a person takes medications containing this hormone, be sure to notify the doctor about this (a group of drugs used in the treatment of infertility).
Reference! Other medications are not able to affect hCG levels.
To determine the exact duration of pregnancy, the study is carried out on the fifth day of the delay, three days later, the analysis can be repeated. In the second trimester, this analysis is mandatory, since it helps identify pathologies.
After a medical curettage or abortion, an hCG test is mandatory. If the fertilized egg is not completely removed, the hCG level will remain elevated. To exclude a false result, the test is repeated three days after surgery.
Video - When to get tested for hCG?
Getting Results
The analysis is performed on the basis of enzyme immunoassay of blood serum. The timing of obtaining the finished result depends on the medical center where the analysis was performed. However, each laboratory provides a rapid test service (results are ready in 1-2 hours).
Some branch medical institutions can send biological material to another region, so you can get the result no earlier than two days later.
Decoding
Note! Indicators of normal limits in different medical centers may differ significantly; decoding should be done by a specialist from the institution where the direct analysis was carried out.
Increased performance
When the hormone level is significantly elevated and exceeds normal levels, this is evidence of pathology. Often, oncological diseases of the kidneys, reproductive organs, and intestines can be diagnosed. A significant increase in hCG in a pregnant woman (exceeding the norm) indicates the following points:
- multiple pregnancy;
- abnormal course of the process;
- after taking medications that replenish progesterone production;
- prolonged pregnancy.
Low performance
When the hCG level decreases by 50% of the normal value, you should urgently consult a leading doctor. Low readings warn of the following:
- ectopic attachment of a fertilized egg;
- threat of disruption;
- pathology of placental insufficiency;
- intrauterine death.
Where is blood tested?
This analysis is carried out in most government medical institutions (free of charge), or in a private laboratory (test price within 500 rubles). In independent laboratories you can use the “express analysis” service, then the results of the study will be ready in a couple of hours.
Thank you
The site provides reference information for informational purposes only. Diagnosis and treatment of diseases must be carried out under the supervision of a specialist. All drugs have contraindications. Consultation with a specialist is required!
To establish the fact of conception, women most often turn to various pregnancy tests for help. These tests give an almost instant result, but this result is not always true. Considering this fact, experts recommend hCG test, with which you can accurately determine pregnancy, and at the earliest stages of its development. What this analysis is and exactly how it needs to be taken, you can find out by reading this article.What it is?
The hCG test is a test for the presence of human chorionic gonadotropin in the body. Human chorionic gonadotropin is a special pregnancy hormone, which in some cases can be detected in the body of a man or a non-pregnant woman. At the moment of conception, the egg divides. During this process, an embryo and membranes are formed, one of which is called the chorion. It is the chorion ( embryo membrane) synthesizes human chorionic gonadotropin, which can be detected in a blood test. Outside of pregnancy, the presence of this hormone may indicate the development of some disease. It is often detected in women who have recently had an abortion.The role of human chorionic gonadotropin in the first trimester of pregnancy
This hormone is necessary primarily to stimulate the synthesis of progesterone ( main hormone of the corpus luteum of the ovaries) and estrogens ( female sex hormones, which are produced by the ovarian follicles, placenta, partially adrenal cortex and testes). Subsequently, the synthesis of these same hormones is carried out by the placenta. If the fetus is male, then human chorionic gonadotropin also takes part in the synthesis Leydig cells (interstitial cells located in the testicular stroma around the convoluted seminiferous tubules), which in turn produce testosterone ( main male sex hormone). Testosterone in this case is really necessary, since it is what contributes to the formation of male genital organs. In addition, this hormone has a beneficial effect on the adrenal cortex of the embryo.Composition of human chorionic gonadotropin
HCG consists of two units - alpha - And beta - HCG. The beta component is unique, but alpha has a structure that is similar to the structure of units of some other hormones. Based on this, during diagnosis, special attention is paid to beta.Indications for analysis
Among women:- Suspicion of ectopic pregnancy;
- Assessment of the completeness of induced abortion;
- Determining the fact of conception in the early stages;
- Diagnosis of fetal defects;
- Risk of miscarriage ;
- Suspicions of an undeveloped pregnancy;
- Suspicions of malignant neoplasms;
- Tracking your pregnancy progress.
- Diagnosis of testicular tumors.
Norms of human chorionic gonadotropin
This table shows the norms of the beta component during different periods of pregnancy.Indicators are measured in honey/ml:
In men and non-pregnant women, the norm is from 0 to 5.
Decoding
Looking at the table, it can be noted that a gradual increase in the level of the pregnancy hormone up to 7 - 11 weeks is the norm. After this, its amount begins to slowly decrease, which is again quite natural. At the same time, specialists are often able to note an excessive increase or decrease in normal values.
An increase in beta indicators during pregnancy can be observed with:
- Diabetes mellitus in the mother;
- Multiple births;
- The mother's intake of synthetic gestagens ( hormones that regulate pregnancy);
- Gestose ( complications of a normal pregnancy, characterized by disorders of a number of organs and body systems);
- Toxicosis ( nausea and vomiting in the morning);
- Incorrectly determined gestational age;
- Various fetal diseases;
- Down syndrome ( pathology, in which most often the karyotype is represented by 47 chromosomes instead of the normal 46) in the fetus;
- Numerous fetal malformations.
- Tumor formations in the gastrointestinal tract;
- Cancer of the kidneys, lungs or uterus;
- Carrying out the analysis within 4 - 5 days after the abortion;
- Testicular tumors;
- Hydatidiform mole ( a product of conception in which normal development of the embryo does not occur, and the placental villi grow in the form of blisters filled with fluid) or its relapses;
- Use of chorionic gonadotropin preparations;
- Chorionic carcinoma ( malignant form of trophoblastic disease that occurs after hydatidiform mole, normal abortion and childbirth).
- Incorrect timing of pregnancy;
- Delay in fetal development;
- Undeveloped pregnancy;
- Fetal death in the 2nd or 3rd trimester of pregnancy;
- Ectopic pregnancy;
- Threat of miscarriage;
- True post-term pregnancy;
- Chronic placental insufficiency ( a condition in which there is a decrease in blood flow in the fetal aorta).
When should this test be taken?
You can take the test already on the 3rd - 5th day of missed menstruation or on the 12th day after the expected conception. It is not recommended to carry it out at an earlier date, since the results of the analysis during this period are most often inaccurate. To identify fetal diseases in pregnant women, experts recommend testing from 14 to 18 weeks of pregnancy.How to get tested correctly?
Blood for analysis is taken from a vein. It must be taken in the morning on an empty stomach. At any other time of the day, blood can be donated no earlier than 4 to 5 hours after eating. Before taking the test, it is important to inform your doctor about the medications you are currently taking, of course, if any.Before use, you should consult a specialist.
Reviews
Hello!
Please tell me, on June 20, 2018, my husband and I didn’t use protection, our last period was on June 10, 2018, then I went to the seaside for a week, on the train on June 29, 2018, I noticed blood on the pad, it didn’t bleed anymore, just out of curiosity, I got tested for HCG on 07/03/2018, the result is 0.45 mmel, last month I took a test 5 days before my period, it showed 0.31 mmel, can I assume that I am pregnant? because I took the test before the ash was delayed by 7-8 days, took the test during the day and the hCG readings increased by 0.14 units from the last test. could this indicate pregnancy? thanks in advance
Hello. Help me answer the question. The hCG tests came back - beta. The doctor said the tests were bad, but did not comment.. 95835 mIU/ml.
MoM - 4.48. Please help me with the answer. and what to do, how to be???((((
Girls, this is the second time I have an ectopic, I think, my hCG is normal 1700, they can’t find the fetus on an ultrasound, my lower abdomen hurts for God’s sake and it can periodically, so I’m going to take the hCG again on Monday, but I have no doubt that I have an ectopic. So soon there will be another operation, girls, the main thing is not to worry and think about the good.
Hello! Please tell me. The doctor prescribed me to take duphaston from 16 to 25 days. with a cycle of 30-32 days. As far as I understand, this drug should be taken after ovulation, and I had it on the 17th-18th day of my pregnancy (I tracked it by ultrasound). Can taking duphaston affect ovulation or not? And how to find out on the 25th day m.c. Is there a pregnancy, because the hCG blood test won’t really show anything yet. But it’s scary to stop taking duphaston, because... may cause miscarriage. P.s. Duphaston was prescribed due to luteal phase deficiency.
Good afternoon
Please tell me! Estimated date of conception 03/20/2015, cycle 28 days, 04/04/2015 menstruation did not start, I took two tests, both weakly positive. 04/08/2015 hCG analysis showed 1026.29 mIU/ml. What does it mean? I am pregnant?
Thank you in advance!!!
Hello, I feel nauseous in the morning, everything is fine during the day, but in the evening I ate and my stomach is bloated, aching in the lower part, weakness, everything is irritated wildly and so on for 3 days in a row, is it worth getting tested?
Hello, the tests have arrived:
b - total hCG is 20319 mU/ml, tell me, am I pregnant and how long is it? I really want a baby......
Hello! Yesterday I had a vaginal ultrasound of the pelvis (as there was a nagging pain in the lower abdomen and spotting). I was told that there was a bend in the uterus and possibly a cyst on the left ovary. I took a test today and it was positive. What does it mean if the ultrasound doesn't see anything?
Hello! Can a beta-hCG test show the sex of a child at an early stage? Or what kind of analysis can show it at an early stage? Please answer, I’ll wait, thank you.
Please help me, I’m 3 days late. Today I donated blood for hCG and showed 14 mU/ml. What does it mean? Thank you in advance!
Hello! My last period started on October 23, 2014. Today I donated blood for hCG, the result is 203. Judging by the norms, this is 2-3 weeks, but according to my calculations, it’s already the fourth. Is it possible?
Hello, please tell me!! I have 5 pregnancy tests (from different companies) that are positive, but the stripes are very weak, today I donated blood for hCG and went to the gynecologist and did an ultrasound, but they didn’t see anything. In the evening the hCG result came back, 14 mU/ml.... is this pregnancy????
Tell me, could this be an ectopic? My last period was on September 25th. days when my husband and I did not use protection 8.9.10 October. The delay is already 13 days. I began to smear inside on November 3. Today they don’t see pregnancy on an ultrasound, although the test has two stripes, one of them is less pronounced. what is this uterine? Or is it still a short period of 3-4 weeks and they might not see the fetus on ultrasound?
Doesn't it look like pregnancy?
Hello, I have one question for you, my periods start differently but I don’t have them either in September or October, please tell me what this means and I feel nauseous
Hello! I have this situation! I have a 27-day cycle, my period lasts for 5 days! My last period was on September 04, already on October 8, there is no 8-day delay, yesterday I had an ultrasound showing the uterus was empty, the tests were also negative, I don’t even know what to think! The ultrasound said that there was ovulation 1-1.5 weeks ago late! Is there any point in donating blood for hCG tomorrow?
Is it possible to determine at an early stage of pregnancy who the father of the child is?
Hello.
I have this situation - my boyfriend and I have been planning a little one for a long time, so we do it often and he cums inside me every time, my periods always come on time! 2-3 always start, that is, at the beginning. but this time they didn’t come, they’ve been gone for a month, today is 31, I took a test somewhere in the middle of the month, at first two bright ones appeared, then one was bright, and the other faded, became barely noticeable, I decided that I was B, Then I took tests every week and today, but for some reason they were all negative. With what it can be connected? and no periods or anything. maybe it's too early? write please. I didn’t go to the doctor. I live far from the city
Good evening. Please tell me. Last May 29, 2014 cycle 28 for 6 days. On the 9th day of the delay (07/03/14) I went for an ultrasound, the doctor did not see the fertilized egg, donated blood for hCG, the hCG response on 07/03 was 224 mU/ml, I came for a repeat ultrasound on 07/07, the doctor again saw nothing, but the hCG on this day was already 1045 mU/ml, they suspected VB, repeated ultrasound was on July 10, a fertilized egg was found in the uterus measuring 5 mm, hCG on July 9 was 2270 mU/ml, they set a very short period, they assume that there was late ovulation, I don’t know what to think, what time Does the size of the fertilized egg and the hCG level correspond? Before this I had a TB on 12/17/13, I’m very worried. Thank you in advance.
Good evening, I had my period on 09/28/13. With a cycle of 28-30 days, I went to the bridle and there was nothing, but 2 tests showed one normal and the other a lighter stripe. How is this to be understood?
Human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) is a hormone that begins to be produced in a woman’s body during pregnancy. First, it is produced by the tissues of the embryo, and then by the placenta. The concentration of hCG in the urine gradually increases. This hormone is important for both the woman and the fetus.
The role of the hormone in the female body
The presence of hCG in the body is natural for a non-pregnant woman, but its concentration is negligible. Normally it contains 0–5 mU/ml. Active release of the hormone begins immediately after the zygote enters the uterine cavity. This happens 5–7 days after conception. The maximum concentration is reached at 9–10 weeks of pregnancy. The hormone is involved in:
- Activation of the production of progesterone by the corpus luteum, an important hormone in the body of a pregnant woman. The corpus luteum performs this function until the 13th week, and after that the placenta is formed and this function is assigned to it. Without progesterone, it becomes impossible for a fertilized egg to attach to the wall of the uterus. The hormone also prepares the uterus itself for enlargement, making the walls of the organ elastic.
- Suspension of the process of follicle maturation. In the ovary they remain dormant throughout the entire gestation period.
- Stimulation of the development of interstitial cells in the male fetus. They are found around the convoluted seminiferous tubules in the testicular stroma and are responsible for the secretion of steroids during puberty.
- Preventing the mother's immune system from reacting to the baby's body. This is especially important in the presence of Rh conflict, when the Rh of the mother’s blood differs from the Rh of the child.
Gonadotropin is necessary for the normal course of pregnancy at all stages, as well as for maintaining the mother’s condition during this period. Increased or decreased content of hubbub is an indication for a complete examination of the woman and fetus.
What affects hormone levels?
HCG levels are individual for each individual case, but more often they are within the acceptable range. Sometimes a change in hormone concentration may not be related to pregnancy.
The level of gonadotropin in urine during the perinatal period may increase for the following reasons:
- multiple pregnancy - concentration increases in proportion to the number of embryos;
- the presence of an extra chromosome in the child’s DNA – Down syndrome;
- gestosis of varying degrees;
- fetal hypoxia;
- development of defects of internal organs in the baby;
- diabetes;
- taking hormonal medications containing gestagen.
It is also worth considering that, according to test data and ultrasound, the doctor may incorrectly determine the due date. In this case, increased gonadotropin is quite justified.
HCG can grow even in the absence of fertilization. The most common cause is the formation of tumors of the uterus and appendages. The presence of the hormone in the urine may also indicate the growth of neoplasms from embryonic tissue. There is an increase in the level of hCG while taking medications containing this particular hormone, as well as some time after an abortion or induced birth. Sometimes the cause is normal ovulation.
The concentration of hCG can not only rise, but also fall. This is an alarm bell and may indicate serious deviations. A decrease in hormone levels indicates:
- fetal death or intrauterine growth retardation;
- fetal growth outside the uterine cavity;
- threat of miscarriage;
- fetoplacental insufficiency;
- placental abruption;
- late death of a child.
All these factors must be taken into account. If a pregnancy test based on hCG levels shows a positive result even in the absence of sexual activity in a woman, you should immediately consult a doctor for advice.
Laboratory methods for determining the hormone in urine
Tests for hCG are carried out if monitoring the dynamics of intrauterine development of the fetus is required, as well as if a tumor of the reproductive organs is suspected. Urine is also examined for gonadotropin if there are signs of a frozen pregnancy, and ultrasound does not detect the baby’s heartbeat. Indications for analysis are also the absence of menstruation. In addition, it is used to understand how well the induced abortion was performed.
The main method of laboratory testing of urine for hCG is the detection of the hormone using a specialized reagent. Based on its concentration, the specialist determines the gestational age. If it is higher or lower than normal and does not correspond to the deadline according to ultrasound, the patient is prescribed an additional examination. This is done in order to find out the reason for the deviation. Blood from a vein on an empty stomach is taken for analysis.
Preparing for the test
In order for the results to be correct and correspond to the real clinical picture, it is necessary to prepare your body for the collection of biomaterial. Any violations in preparation may lead to a false result and repeated testing.
Women donating biomaterial are not allowed to:
- have sex the night before;
- physically exert yourself (hard work, playing sports, etc.);
- drink alcohol and drugs, and smoke.
The biomaterial is collected in the morning in a sterile container. Morning urine contains slightly higher levels of hormones, which increases the likelihood of detecting hCG even in the early stages of pregnancy.
Normal hormone levels
A sensitive hCG hormone test will confirm pregnancy 7–9 days after conception. If your period has not started and the test remains negative, you should repeat it in a few days. Every day after conception, the level of hCG in the urine doubles, and closer to the 14th week it begins to rise rapidly.
The normal level of hCG in urine by day from conception is presented in the table:
HCG value in urine by days after fertilization | |||||||
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Day after conception | Min. value in honey/ml | Wed. value in honey/ml | Max. value in honey/ml | Day after conception | Min. value in honey/ml | Wed. value in honey/ml | Max. value in honey/ml |
7 DPO | 2 | 4 | 10 | 25 DPO | 2400 | 6150 | 9800 |
8 DPO | 3 | 7 | 18 | 26 DPO | 4200 | 8160 | 15600 |
9 DPO | 5 | 11 | 21 | 27 DPO | 5400 | 10200 | 19500 |
10 DPO | 8 | 18 | 26 | 28 DPO | 7100 | 11300 | 27300 |
11 DPO | 11 | 28 | 45 | 29 DPO | 8800 | 13600 | 33000 |
12 DPO | 17 | 45 | 65 | 30 DPO | 10500 | 16500 | 40000 |
13 DPO | 22 | 73 | 105 | 31 DPO | 11500 | 19500 | 60000 |
14 DPO | 29 | 105 | 170 | 32 DPO | 12800 | 22600 | 63000 |
15 DPO | 39 | 160 | 270 | 33 DPO | 14000 | 24000 | 68000 |
16 DPO | 68 | 260 | 400 | 34 DPO | 15500 | 27200 | 7000 |
17 DPO | 120 | 410 | 580 | 35 DPO | 17000 | 31000 | 74000 |
18 DPO | 220 | 650 | 840 | 36 DPO | 19000 | 36000 | 78000 |
19 DPO | 370 | 980 | 1300 | 37 DPO | 20500 | 39500 | 83000 |
20 DPO | 520 | 1380 | 2000 | 38 DPO | 22000 | 45000 | 87000 |
21 DPO | 750 | 1960 | 3100 | 39 DPO | 23000 | 51000 | 93000 |
22 DPO | 1050 | 2680 | 4900 | 40 DPO | 25000 | 58000 | 108000 |
23 DPO | 1400 | 3550 | 6200 | 41 DPO | 26500 | 62000 | 117000 |
24 DPO | 1830 | 4650 | 7800 | 42 DPO | 28000 | 65000 | 128000 |
There are also hCG norms for each week of pregnancy. It is through them that the process of child development in the womb is controlled.
The average concentration of HCG in urine by week of pregnancy is presented in the table:
Average hCG values in urine by week of pregnancy | |
---|---|
Week of pregnancy | HCG norm in honey/ml |
1–2 | 10-170 |
2-3 | 105-3100 |
3-4 | 1960-27300 |
4-5 | 11300-74000 |
5-6 | 31000–128000 |
6-7 | 27500–237000 |
7-11 | 21000–300000 |
11-16 | 15000–60000 |
16-21 | 10000–35000 |
21-38 | 10000–60000 |
In a non-pregnant woman, the amount of the hormone should be no more than 5 mU/ml. If the hCG content is higher than this value, it is necessary to re-test in a few days. Decoding the results will help you understand whether fertilization has occurred or not.
Tests for detecting hCG at home
It is not at all necessary to take tests to the laboratory to confirm or deny pregnancy. You can also do the test at home; pharmacy chains offer a wide range of tests for this purpose. They differ in sensitivity to the hormone, as well as in the method of use.
Sometimes it happens that the test is positive, but the laboratory test for hCG is negative. This happens due to poor quality of the test or problems in the child's development.
Types of Pregnancy Tests
The tests have one control strip, which becomes colored in any case. The second strip appears only if the hormone is present in the urine.
There are several types of tests:
- The test strip is the simplest option on the market. Due to its low cost and ease of use, it is the most popular. The strips are usually individually packaged, each with a control zone coated with a gonadotropin-sensitive reagent. The analysis takes only a few minutes. The strip is dipped into morning urine until a certain mark is reached and after 5 minutes the result is observed.
- Tablets have higher sensitivity and are much more expensive. Such rapid tests can detect pregnancy much earlier. The tablet itself consists of a plastic case and a hole with material impregnated with a reagent. Urine is applied into this hole using a pipette.
- Inkjet - easy to use and highly sensitive. To get the result, simply place the test rod under a stream of urine. Due to the high content of the reagent, it makes it possible to carry out it at very early stages.
- Systems with reservoirs - have a special container for collecting biomaterial. The only difference with previous tests is that they are convenient to use.
- Electronic tests of a new generation. Thanks to the latest technologies, they not only detect the hormone, but also determine its concentration. The test is equipped with a small electronic display that will show the gestational age. The only drawback is the high cost.
To ensure the accuracy of the test result, it is worth buying several options from different manufacturers. This will help you get an objective assessment. If after a negative test your period still does not begin, you should consult a gynecologist for advice.
The presence of the hormone in the urine is the first sign that a woman is pregnant. Based on the concentration of hCG, you can calculate the approximate day of conception even without an ultrasound. But the presence of a hormone does not always mean pregnancy, its appearance can be a consequence of many problems in the body, including malignant tumors. There is nothing complicated or confusing about performing the test at home. Due to its availability and the availability of different options, every woman can determine pregnancy using the hCG test.
HCG (human chorionic gonadotropin) is a specific gonadotropic hormone, which is the main indicator of pregnancy. Normally, it is absent in the human body, and its presence in the blood indicates only two things:
- pregnancy has occurred;
- there is a threat of developing cancer, since some types of cancer cells are capable of producing hCG.
For the most part, women are interested in hCG specifically to determine pregnancy, so this issue will be discussed in detail.
When to donate blood for hCG?
It is important to know that a pregnancy test is nothing more than the same hCG test, only at home. Thanks to the hCG-sensitive reagent, which, when interacting with a woman’s urine, reacts to the presence of gonadotropin hormone, it is possible to determine whether conception occurred early, even before a missed period. These pregnancy tests have different sensitivity. With the most sensitive tests, pregnancy can be determined even before menstrual bleeding is delayed (sensitivity up to 10 mmol/milliliter), and the most common test strips have a sensitivity of up to 25 mmol/milliliter.
If you believe unspoken statistics, hCG tests for home conditions often show false positive or false negative results. False negatives are more common than false positives. Although the manufacturer claims that the probability of error does not exceed 1%, nevertheless, the error rates exceed the manufacturer’s stated percentage. Therefore, relying on the fact that a rapid test at home will show a reliable result is not entirely reliable.
The most optimal test to determine the level of hCG in the body is a blood sample. It is best to donate blood for analysis in the morning on an empty stomach, like all other types of tests. The optimal date is at least 4-5 days after the start of the delay. The fact is that the level of hCG begins to rise only from the moment of implantation of the fertilized egg into the uterine cavity, but not after the last sexual intercourse, or from the end of ovulation. Before the fertilized egg attaches, at least a week, or even a week and a half, will pass, since its path through the fallopian tubes takes considerable time. Since women most often become pregnant in the middle of the cycle, when ovulation occurs, implantation appears approximately before the onset of menstruation in the final phase of the menstrual cycle. From the moment the fertilized egg attaches to the uterine cavity, the level of gonadotropin begins to increase daily by 2 times the previous level. This means that if the indicator was 3 mmol/milliliter, then the next day it will be 6 mmol, on the third 12, etc.
Indicators from 0 to 5 show the norm for a non-pregnant woman. From 5 to 25 is a controversial indicator that requires re-testing at least a few days later. A hCG test can show the presence or absence of pregnancy when carried out on the 3-5th day of delayed menstrual flow. Analysis carried out earlier will not provide accurate information.
Why do you need to take a gonadotropin test?
Many women do not know why they are tested for this hormone after they have learned that they are already in an interesting position. After all, most citizens believe that this analysis is done only to confirm or refute the fact of conception. This is fundamentally wrong. Thanks to these indicators, it is possible not only to identify the fact of conception, but also:
- identify some diseases;
- monitor the normal course of pregnancy;
- identify a hidden threat to the fetus or the health of the expectant mother.
Excessive or insufficient indicators at a certain time after the delay will tell a lot.
Before donating blood for analysis after conception, you need to make sure that the term of the interesting position is set correctly, otherwise you can make a mistake, and this is extremely undesirable, because a medical error costs a lot.
Elevated gonadotropin levels
An elevated level of human chorionic gonadotropic hormone without deviations from the norm often indicates a multiple pregnancy. In other cases, the value increases:
- with manifestations of severe toxicosis;
- if you suspect the development of pathology in the fetus (for example, Down syndrome);
- when the child is pregnant;
- if a pregnant woman has diabetes mellitus;
- with hormonal therapy to maintain fetal life;
- may be elevated for some time after the abortion;
The worst consequence for the expectant mother, which is indicated by high gonadotropin levels, is the risk of gestosis or eclampsia. Gestosis is a complicated form of toxicosis in the later stages, which is characterized by:
- severe swelling;
- impairment of kidney function;
- sudden weight gain;
- increased blood pressure.
If gestosis is not treated in time, it will eventually cause eclampsia, which is characterized by a convulsive seizure. If medical care is not provided to a woman in time, she or her child will die. This is why it is so important to test your gonadotropin levels during pregnancy.
Decreased gonadotropin levels
A reduced level of human chorionic gonadotropin may indicate ectopic implantation of the fetus in the early stages after a delay. If the fertilized egg is not located where it is needed, then an abortion will be performed in any case, otherwise the woman risks further death from rupture of the ovary or fallopian tube. A low level also indicates:
- about the threat of miscarriage;
- about placental insufficiency of the fetus;
- lag in the norms of intrauterine development;
- lack of intrauterine development;
- possible death of the child;
- post-maturity of the fetus in later stages.
In any case, if the result obtained does not fit into the time limits, an urgent ultrasound examination is necessary to finally clarify the existing situation. Also, if a diagnosis of a threatened miscarriage is made, you need to urgently go to the hospital for conservation. In no case should you ignore all medical recommendations given by the gynecologist regarding treatment or further diagnosis.
How to take a chorionic hormone test correctly
To get the most accurate result, you need to perform a few simple manipulations.
- do not eat for 4-6 hours before donating blood;
- It is best to take blood samples in the morning;
- the day before testing, you need to avoid any physical activity;
- Before donating blood, you should not drink alcoholic beverages or smoke cigarettes;
- If hormonal medications are taken as prescribed by a gynecologist, this must be reported to the laboratory assistant.
After receiving the result of a hormonal diagnosis of the normal level of chorionic hormone, you need to provide the treating gynecologist with all the data obtained for further medical conclusion. Drawing any conclusions on your own and self-medicating is highly discouraged.
One of the most accurate methods for determining pregnancy in the early stages is a blood test for the amount of hCG hormone. Human chorionic gonadotropin beta particle is a unique glycoprotein unit that is produced after the embryo attaches to the uterus. Its blood levels vary depending on the duration of pregnancy and play an important role in the synthesis of the hormones estradiol, progesterone and estriol. For those interested in their “interesting” situation, it will not be difficult to accurately determine the presence of pregnancy by donating blood for hCG. What is this, how the procedure works, when to undergo it and how to evaluate the results, we will consider in the article.
What is hCG?
Human chorionic gonadotropin is a hormone with a protein structure. It is produced by the tissues of the developing embryo throughout the entire gestation period. Thanks to this substance, ovarian function is inhibited. New eggs stop maturing, and the next menstruation does not occur. HCG adjusts the female body to carry a pregnancy, promoting hormonal changes.
This glycoprotein consists of two units: the alpha unit is similar to other hormones in the body, while the beta unit is unique. Therefore, when carrying out the analysis, they focus specifically on the concentration of the beta particle.
A small presence of the hormone in the human body is considered normal even in the absence of pregnancy. It is produced by the pituitary gland. Sometimes some amount of the hormone is found in the body of men and non-pregnant women. The normal level of hCG in the blood is up to 5 mIU/ml, and for women during menopause - up to 9.5 mIU/ml.
How to determine pregnancy using a blood test?
The level in a woman’s body has become a universal indicator of pregnancy. Express strips are designed exactly according to this principle. They respond to the level of the hormone in the urine, which begins to increase noticeably within 2 weeks after fertilization. However, tests are not always accurate, and they cannot accurately determine the gestational age. Therefore, women who expect to conceive are advised to donate blood for hCG. What is this? A routine procedure performed in any private or public laboratory.
The results obtained are highly accurate. Many women are interested in the question: “When will blood test for hCG show pregnancy?” Obstetricians-gynecologists recommend taking your time and thinking about conducting an analysis only after a delay. The minimum period after which it is possible to determine pregnancy is 7 days from the moment of conception.
When can you donate blood for hCG?
Despite the fact that a blood test is a highly accurate and accessible method for finding out about pregnancy, it is worth thinking about the timing of its implementation. Of course, nothing prevents you from contacting a diagnostic laboratory within a couple of days after conception. But the results of such an analysis will not be reliable. And yet, when can you donate blood for hCG to get accurate data about pregnancy? Doctors recommend the following terms:
- If a woman knows exactly the day of conception, then 2 weeks need to be counted from it. On the received date and schedule the analysis;
- in cases where it is impossible to determine the moment of conception, it is considered advisable to take the test 3 weeks after the date of missed menstruation.
To obtain reliable results, you should be patient and wait the recommended period.
How to get tested and how much does it cost?
Women inexperienced in matters of pregnancy and motherhood ask many questions about the analysis. How to take hCG, what rules must be followed? In fact, everything is much simpler than it seems. Blood for hCG is taken from the cubital vein in an amount of 5 ml. It is advisable to come for the test in the morning and not eat anything before the procedure. Before receiving a doctor's referral, it is better to warn about taking medications. This may affect the results of the study.
What is the cost of a blood test for hCG? Price may vary depending on laboratory. On average, the service will cost 500 rubles, in the capital - about 800 rubles. This applies to private clinics and diagnostic centers. In a budgetary institution at the place of residence, a referral is issued free of charge.
Interpretation of primary results
Having decided when it is better to donate blood for hCG, having gone through the procedure and received the desired result, I would like to learn more about what the numbers on the test report mean. There are three possible scenarios:
- Negative - the hormone is determined in the amount of 0 to 5 mIU/ml.
- Doubtful - chorion indicators are recorded in the range of 5-25 mIU/ml.
- Positive - hCG in the blood exceeds 25 mIU/ml.
If a questionable result is obtained (a slight increase in the hormone), it is recommended to repeat the analysis in a few days. In this case, it is advisable to observe the same conditions for collecting and diagnosing blood: appear at the same clinic, at the same time of day and on an empty stomach. The new result is compared with the previous one. If the deviation in one direction or another persists and exceeds 50% of the norm, a conclusion is drawn about the presence of a pathological process (a sign of tumors). In the case of a 20% deviation from the established values, the result is again called into question by ordering a new study. In some cases, if the results are stable and there are no pathologies, a conclusion is made about the individual level of chorionic hormone in the blood.
A one-time analysis is performed only if a negative result is obtained, and there is no doubt about it over time. When pregnancy is confirmed, it is necessary to periodically monitor the hCG hormone in the blood.
Changes in test results by week of pregnancy
In the first weeks of pregnancy, the level of chorion hormone in the blood increases significantly. The growth rate is considered in days required to double it:
- up to 6 weeks - 2;
- 6-8 weeks - 3;
- 8-10 weeks - 4.
By the 11th week of pregnancy, the result of a blood test for hCG will show the maximum value. After which a gradual decline will begin. At 16 weeks, the indicator will be identical to a 7-week pregnancy. During the remaining period of gestation, the hormone level will remain stable.
A week from conception | HCG level, mIU/ml |
The variation in chorionic hormone levels is very high: all options in the specified range are considered normal. In addition, only a doctor can reliably interpret the results. Sometimes the individual hormone level in the blood is slightly higher or lower than the standard.
HCG indicators during IVF
If a woman has undergone IVF, the procedure for conducting the analysis will change slightly. When will the blood test for hCG show pregnancy in this case? The answer from experts is this: the procedure should be completed no earlier than 12 days after the injection containing the chorionic hormone. The table shows the average hCG values in the blood after implantation of the embryo into the uterine cavity.
Average hCG value, mIU/ml |
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How to take hCG if injections containing it were prescribed after implantation of the embryo in order to maintain the functioning of the corpus luteum? You should wait a few days before taking the test. Otherwise, the results will be overestimated.
High levels of hCG in the blood
Most pregnant women have little or no knowledge of their pregnancy. If everything is fine, the doctor rarely tells the expectant mother about the results of each examination. It's another matter when problems arise. HCG in the blood may be higher or lower than normal. And only with rare exceptions does this not indicate a pathology of fetal development or maternal health.
What do the inflated numbers in the hCG test results hide? Sometimes it’s nothing serious: incorrect timing or multiple pregnancies. However, suspicion often falls on the presence of diabetes mellitus, toxicosis, or pathologies in the development of the embryo. If an elevated level of hCG is detected in the blood, a repeat test and additional examination of the expectant mother are prescribed.
Low hCG levels
The level of the chorion hormone in a woman’s blood makes it possible to accurately not only detect pregnancy in the early stages, but also monitor the development of the embryo throughout the entire period of gestation. HCG is a specific hormone of motherhood. Its underestimated indicators, as a rule, indicate problems with the course of pregnancy:
- threat of miscarriage;
- delay in embryo development;
- fetal death;
- “freezing” of the embryo;
- ectopic pregnancy;
- pathology of the placenta or fetus.
Any deviation from the norm in the results of the hCG analysis is an alarming sign that requires immediate consultation with a doctor for advice.
Should you rely on the results of the analysis?
And yet, blood test for hCG - what is it? How much can you trust a typical laboratory test? This procedure is similar to sampling because hCG is one of them. The reliability of the result is at a high level: inaccuracies rarely occur, usually due to taking medications or consuming specific products on the eve of the analysis.
Laboratory tests may give a false positive or false negative answer. In the first case, a high level of hCG, typical for a pregnant woman, will be detected. Only after a while does it become clear that there is no embryo in the uterine cavity. Why is this happening? There are few options: either the drugs taken by the woman (including those containing hCG) are to blame, or this is a serious sign of pathology.
A false negative result usually occurs when the test is performed too early. There are also anomalies in the development of the embryo in the early stages. In any case, a repeat analysis and ultrasound are prescribed.
conclusions
Blood test for hCG - what is it? It turns out to be a standard and very informative analysis. With its help, you can accurately diagnose pregnancy after just 2 hCG - a specific hormone produced by the tissues of the chorion (later the placenta). After entering the uterine cavity, its quantity increases sharply, stimulating the restructuring of the body for bearing the fetus. HCG indicators characterize pregnancy in the best possible way and promptly notify the expectant mother not only about the “interesting” situation, but also about disruptions in the baby’s development.