Table of Contents
- Overview
- Results
- Risks
- Prevention
- Images
This type of human chorionic gonadotropin (HCG) test measures the specific level of HCG in the urine. HCG is a hormone produced during pregnancy.
See also:
HCG in blood serum - qualitative HCG in blood serum - quantitative Pregnancy test
Alternative Names
Beta-HCG - urine; Human chorionic gonadotropin - urine
How the test is performed
As you urinate, collect a urine sample in a special (sterile) cup. Home pregnancy tests require the test strip to be dipped into the urine sample or passed through the urine stream while urinating. Carefully follow package directions.
Usually a first-morning sample (the first time you urinate in the morning) is preferred, because it is the most concentrated.
How to prepare for the test
No special preparation is needed.
How the test will feel
The test involves normal urination into a cup or onto a stick.
Why the test is performed
Urine HCG tests are a common method of determining if a woman is pregnant. The best time to test for pregnancy at home is after you miss your period.
Review Date: 11/21/2010
Reviewed By: Linda J. Vorvick, MD, Medical Director, MEDEX Northwest Division of
Physician Assistant Studies, University of Washington, School of
Medicine; and Susan Storck, MD, FACOG, Chief, Eastside Department
of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Group Health Cooperative of Puget
Sound, Redmond, Washington; Clinical Teaching Faculty, Department
of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Washington School of
Medicine. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director,
A.D.A.M., Inc.
A.D.A.M., Inc. is accredited by URAC, also known as the American Accreditation HealthCare Commission (www.urac.org)
