hCG, Total, Qualitative (Pregnancy) (Human Chorionic Gonadotropin) FEMALES ONLY:
Fasting Required: No
Specimen: Blood
Lab: Quest Diagnostics
Results: Average processing time 2-3 days
Note: Result turnaround times are an estimate and are not guaranteed. Our reference lab may need additional time due to weather, holidays, confirmation/repeat testing, or equipment maintenance.
Description: A qualitative hCG blood test gives a positive or negative answer. It can provide "INDETERMINATE" if the results value is between Negative and Postive. An Indeterminate result will require a retest within 48-72 hours to get a Postive/Negative result. Production of hCG increases steadily during the first trimester (8–10 weeks) of a normal pregnancy, peaking around the 10th week after the last menstrual cycle. Levels then fall slowly during the remainder of the pregnancy and is no longer detectable within a few weeks after delivery.
Alternative Name(s): Human Chorionic Gonadotropin (hCG), Chorionic Gonadotropin