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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 testing is part of a comprehensive health screening. While primarily known as a pregnancy marker, b-hCG also serves as a valuable indicator in general health assessments and fertility evaluations.

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

b-hCG is essential for confirming and monitoring pregnancy. Rising levels in early pregnancy can help assess whether the pregnancy is progressing as expected. Outside of pregnancy, elevated b-hCG levels may indicate certain tumours and warrant further investigation.

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.