B-hCG, (Beta Human Chorionic Gonadotropin) (Beta hCG)
Also known as: Pregnancy blood test
How to prepare
You can eat and drink normally before the test.
No special preparation needed.
Tell our phlebotomist about any medicines you take. Don't stop them without asking your doctor.
Wear a loose sleeve so the sample can be taken easily from your arm.
How it works
About this test
Beta hCG is the pregnancy hormone. This blood test confirms pregnancy earlier and more accurately than urine tests, and the quantitative value helps follow early pregnancy.
Why is this test done?
- Confirm pregnancy
- Check early pregnancy growth
- Monitor miscarriage or ectopic pregnancy
Symptoms — when should you get tested?
- Missed period
- Nausea or breast tenderness
- Spotting in early pregnancy
Normal range
Reference ranges differ slightly between labs, methods, age and sex. Always discuss your report with your doctor.
If your result is high
A rising beta hCG usually means pregnancy. Values normally double every 2–3 days in early pregnancy.
Common reasons- Pregnancy
- Twins
- Rarely, molar pregnancy or tumours
If your result is low
Low or falling values in pregnancy need your doctor's review.
Common reasons- Very early pregnancy
- Miscarriage
- Ectopic pregnancy
How is the test done?
- 1Book online
Choose your slot for home collection or a visit to our centre.
- 2Blood sample taken
A trained phlebotomist takes a small blood sample from a vein in your arm with a sealed, single-use needle. It takes about 2 minutes.
- 3Tested in our lab
Your barcoded sample is tested on automated machines with strict quality checks.
- 4Report on WhatsApp
A pathologist checks the result and the report reaches you on WhatsApp and email.
Frequently asked questions
No fasting is needed for this test. You can eat and drink normally.
Your report is usually ready in same day after the sample reaches our lab. We send it on WhatsApp and email, and you can also download it from the Reports page.
Please call our team to confirm whether home sample collection is available for your location and test.
This test needs a blood sample. No special preparation needed.