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HCG in urine - All Information

Alternative Names

Beta-HCG - urine; Human chorionic gonadotropin - urine

Definition of HCG in urine:

This type of human chorionic gonadotropin (HCG) test measures the specific level of HCG in the urine. HCG is a hormone produced during pregnancy.

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.

Normal Values:

The test is negative if you are not pregnant.
The test is positive if you are pregnant.

A pregnancy test, including a properly performed home pregnancy test, is considered to be about 98% accurate. Positive results are more likely to be accurate than negative results. When the test is negative but pregnancy is still suspected, the test should be repeated in 1 week.

What the risks are:

There are essentially no risks (except for "false positive" or "false negative" results).

Female urinary tract

Male urinary tract

Reviewed last on: 11/21/2010
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.

References

Morrison LJ. General approach to the pregnant patient. In: Marx JA, Hockberger RS, Walls RM, et al, eds. Rosen’s Emergency Medicine: Concepts and Clinical Practice. 7th ed. Philadelphia, Pa: Mosby Elsevier; 2009:chap 175.

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