The Human Chorionic Gonadotropin, or HCG, is a hormone that the placenta produces during pregnancy. It is a useful hormone for making the uterine lining thicker to support the growth of an embryo. The HCG hormone plays a vital function by indicating when the body should stop menstruation. Therefore, the HCG test is one of the first tests recommended for finding out about the pregnancy. What is involved in the Human Chorionic Gonadotropin test, and how can you interpret the results? Let us learn more about the test in the following post.
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How is Human Chorionic Gonadotropin Relevant in Pregnancy?
Once conception is done, the fertilized egg travels to the uterus through the fallopian tubes and attaches to the uterus wall. The implantation of the fertilized egg or embryo on the uterus wall triggers the development of the placenta. Subsequently, the placenta begins the production of HCG, which it releases into blood and urine. HCG can be discovered in a person’s blood after 11 days of conception. On the other hand, HCG levels in urine tests are not visible for a long period of time after conception.
Human Chorionic Gonadotropin plays a vital role in pregnancy as it helps in the creation of more progesterone and estrogen. The combination of the hormones helps make the uterine line thicker, signaling the body to stop menstruation. The correct balance of HCG, estrogen, and progesterone helps support the pregnancy.
What Are the Types of HCG Tests?
The next important piece of information about HCG tests would point to the description of the types of tests. The two common types of HCG tests include qualitative and quantitative HCG tests. Here is a brief overview of the two approaches for testing HCG levels.
- Qualitative HCG Testing
People can use qualitative HCG tests to check elevated levels of Human Chorionic Gonadotropin hormone in blood or urine. A high level of HCG in the blood or urine sample indicates the signs of pregnancy. On the other hand, a negative result implies that the person might not be pregnant. However, repeating the test after a few days is recommended in case of doubts regarding pregnancy.
- Quantitative HCG Testing
Quantitative HCG tests or beta HCG tests are effective blood tests for measuring a specific variant of HCG hormones in the blood. The quantitative tests measure the HCG hormone in international units or IU per liter of blood. Quantitative HCG tests are recommended for determining the fetus’s age or the pregnancy’s progression.
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Are HCG Tests Accurate?
The accuracy of an HCG test is almost 99% when done correctly. Interestingly, Human Chorionic Gonadotropin tests have lesser chances of false-positive results.
Do You Want to Take HCG Tests?
The best way to obtain credible Human Chorionic Gonadotropin test results is to choose a reliable healthcare service provider. You need to consult with qualified healthcare professionals to identify the ideal time to go for HCG tests. The support and guidance of expert doctors could help you make effective decisions regarding your health during pregnancy.
