The Beta hCG test in Bangalore is a simple blood test that measures the levels of hCG in the body. hCG stands for human chorionic gonadotropin, which is a hormone produced by the cells of the early embryo, usually during pregnancy. Measurement of hCG levels helps identify normal pregnancy as well as complications that may arise during pregnancy such as ectopic pregnancy (the fertilised egg is implanted outside the uterus), being pregnant with multiple babies or even a miscarriage. It can also help monitor an individual after an aborted pregnancy, and is also known as the pregnancy test or maternal marker because it detects the hormone that is produced by the body during pregnancy. The Beta hCG test is considered to be an accurate test for confirming pregnancy as compared to home pregnancy kits that are based on an assessment of urine. The Beta hCG test can detect even small amounts of hCG in the blood sample. Therefore, the test can also help determine the age of the foetus. The test can provide insights into pregnancy at as early as 7-10 days after conception. The test can also facilitate the comparison of hCG levels during various phases of pregnancy.

Since hCG is an essential diagnostic test for detecting pregnancy and assessing pregnancy health, here are a few things you should know so that you can ensure accurate results.

Prerequisites

The hCG test does not require any special preparation such as fasting.

The best time to get tested

While the test can be performed at any time, it is most commonly conducted after a missed period. This timing helps ensure accurate detection of hCG levels, which rise significantly during early pregnancy. Taking the test earlier can lead to negative results despite being pregnant.

Eligibility for Beta hCG test

Individuals who need to detect a pregnancy or evaluate the health of an ongoing pregnancy, are experiencing symptoms such as unusual bleeding or severe cramping or have a history of miscarriage are eligible for the test.

Cautions before taking the Beta hCG test

It is important to be aware that medicines (e.g., those containing hCG) and some health conditions (e.g., tumour or recent pregnancy loss) can affect test results. Therefore, it is crucial to inform the doctor if you are taking any medicines.

The Beta hCG at home test is a crucial diagnostic tool for various health conditions, particularly related to pregnancy. Here are key reasons to get the test done:

• Confirming Pregnancy

The concentration of hCG rises in the blood and urine during pregnancy within the first 10 days after conception. It is one of the most reliable indicators of pregnancy, especially in its early stages.

• Estimating Foetal Age

Estimating the amount of hCG in blood helps determine the age of the developing baby.

• Diagnosing Abnormal Pregnancies

The test assists in identifying ectopic pregnancies, where the embryo implants outside the uterus. It can also diagnose molar pregnancies, characterised by the abnormal growth of cells within the uterus.

Monitoring Pregnancy Progress

The test can be ordered multiple times over several days to monitor the progression of your pregnancy. It helps assess the health and viability of the pregnancy, especially if there are concerns about complications.

• Evaluating Symptoms

If you experience symptoms such as vaginal bleeding or cramping, the test can be ordered to determine if you have an ectopic pregnancy or are at risk of miscarriage.

Thus, the Beta hCG test can provide crucial information in both pregnant and non-pregnant individuals.

hCG levels rise geometrically during pregnancy. Below are the reference values for beta hCG levels according to weeks of pregnancy:

Interpretation:

• Elevated beta hCG levels are an early indicator of early pregnancy, with values increasing steadily during the first 8 weeks.

• Consistently elevated hCG levels may also be due to the presence of certain (heterophilic) antibodies, non-specific protein binding, or the presence of hCG-like substances in the blood.

• Persistently high hCG levels outside of pregnancy should prompt further investigation for potential underlying conditions or interference from other substances.

• Borderline high beta hCG levels may not necessarily indicate a pregnancy. A follow-up test after 48-72 hours is recommended to confirm a rise in levels.