What is this test?
A blood test that measures the quantity of hCG (human chorionic gonadotriphin) hormone in your blood is used to confirm pregnancy.
 
Sample required
Blood.
 
Patient preparation
No specific patient preparation protocol is required. Inform your doctor if you are on any medications or have any underlying medical conditions or allergies before undergoing this test.
 
Turn-around time (How long does it take?)
6 Hours.
 
Basis of the Test
Human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) is a hormone produced by the placenta of a pregnant woman. HCG can be detected in blood samples after 8-11 days of conception. The levels of HCG doubles continuously for every 48-72 hours and the peak levels can be observed during 8-11 weeks after conception.
 
Description
To confirm a pregnancy; to help identify an ectopic pregnancy; to monitor a pregnancy that may be at risk of failing; occasionally to screen a woman for pregnancy prior to some medical treatments; as part of a panel of tests used to screen for fetal abnormalities