That two-week-long wait for confirmation of pregnancy can feel endless. You may notice every small change in your body in these months. During this time, the Beta hCG test becomes the first clear sign of pregnancy. It is a simple blood test that measures the level of human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) in your body. This hormone is produced after the implantation of the baby in your uterus.
Measuring hCG levels in pregnancy helps doctors confirm whether you are pregnant and understand how the pregnancy is progressing. Understanding the normal hCG levels in early pregnancy is important because healthy levels usually rise in a known pattern during the first few weeks.
What is hCG (Human Chorionic Gonadotropin)?
Human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) is a hormone that the developing placenta produces during implantation. Its primary function is to signal the corpus luteum (a temporary structure in the ovary that takes the place of the egg released from the Ovarian follicles) to continue producing progesterone, an important hormone for early pregnancy maintenance.
As the pregnancy progresses, the placenta takes over progesterone production, but hCG plays a vital role throughout gestation.
Also Read: When Should You Take A Pregnancy Test?
What is hCG (Human Chorionic Gonadotropin)?
Human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) is a hormone that the developing placenta produces during implantation. Its primary function is to signal the corpus luteum (a temporary structure in the ovary that takes the place of the egg released from the Ovarian follicles) to continue producing progesterone, an important hormone for early pregnancy maintenance.
As the pregnancy progresses, the placenta takes over progesterone production, but hCG plays a vital role throughout gestation.
What is the Beta hCG Test?
Beta-hCG test measures the amount of human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) in the blood. This test is usually done 10 – 14 days after conception as the hCG hormone is released during this time. Unlike a home pregnancy test that only tells you “positive” or “negative,” the Beta hCG test gives you a specific number. This number helps your doctor confirm early pregnancy and understand how it is progressing.
In early pregnancy, hCG levels usually increase every 48 – 72 hours. By repeating the test after two days, your doctor can check whether the rise looks healthy.
It might be possible that you have heard other names for the Beta hCG test. It is popular by the name:
- Quantitative blood pregnancy test
- Quantitative hCG test
- Quantitative serial beta-hCG test
- Repeat quantitative beta-hCG test
- hCG blood test
What are the Types of hCG Tests?
If you are trying to confirm your pregnancy, you might hear about different types of hCG tests. It can feel confusing at first. But once you understand the basics, it becomes simple.
There are mainly two types of hCG tests, which are:
1. Qualitative hCG Test (Urine Test)
This is the most common pregnancy test. You can usually do it at home using a urine sample. It checks whether hCG is present in your body, but it does not tell you the exact level. If you have missed your period, this test can give you an early indication of pregnancy. However, it may not detect a very early pregnancy if the hormone level is still low.
2. Quantitative hCG Test (Beta hCG Blood Test)
This test is also called the Beta hCG test. These tests are done by doctors through a blood sample. Unlike a urine test, this test measures the exact amount of hCG in your blood. This number helps your doctor:
- Confirm early pregnancy
- Track how your hCG levels are rising
- Monitor pregnancy after IVF treatment
- Identify possible concerns if levels are too low or too high
What Does Beta hCG Measure?
When you take a Beta hCG test, it does more than just confirm pregnancy. It gives you clear information about what is happening inside your body. Here is what it measures:
- The exact level of hCG in your blood: It tells you the exact amount of pregnancy hormone present, not just a yes or no result.
- Early pregnancy confirmation: Even before a urine test shows positive, this test can detect small amounts of hCG.
- Rising hCG levels: In early pregnancy, hCG levels increase every 48 – 72 hours. The test helps track this pattern through continuous tests.
- Possible early concerns: The levels may also signal issues like slow development or a need for further evaluation.
- Pregnancy after IVF treatment: It helps confirm implantation and monitor early development after embryo transfer.
Normal Beta hCG Levels in Early Pregnancy
The following are the ranges of hCG levels during pregnancy. However, these ranges can change from person to person. It is better to consult a gynaecologist or a fertility specialist to know how the hCG level during pregnancy works:
| Time Since Last Period | hCG Range (if Pregnant) |
| 3 Weeks | 5 to 72 mIU/ml |
| 4 Weeks | 10 to 708 mIU/ml |
| 5 Weeks | 217 to 8,245 mIU/ml |
| 6 Weeks | 152 to 32,177 mIU/ml |
| 7 Weeks | 4,059 to 153,767 mIU/ml |
| 8 Weeks | 31,366 to 149,094 mIU/ml |
| 9 Weeks | 59,109 to 135,901 mIU/ml |
| 10 Weeks | 44,186 to 170,409 mIU/ml |
| 12 Weeks | 27,107 to 201,165 mIU/ml |
Crysta IVF Expert Explains What is a Normal Beta hCG Level After IVF?
“When you undergo IVF treatment, the Beta hCG test becomes a very important step for you. I understand how emotional this phase can be, especially during the 10 – 14 days after embryo transfer.
However, there is no single fixed number that we call “normal.” In most cases, if your beta hCG level is above 25 mIU/mL, we consider it positive for pregnancy. However, what matters more than the first number is how the level increases. In a healthy early pregnancy, your hCG levels should rise steadily, usually doubling every 48 – 72 hours.
For example, if your first beta hCG is 100 mIU/mL, I will usually repeat the test after two days to see if it increases appropriately. A good rise gives us reassurance that the pregnancy is progressing well.
Please remember, a slightly lower starting number does not always mean something is wrong.”
Senior IVF Specialist
Crysta IVF, Delhi
What Do Low Beta hCG Levels Mean?
If your beta hCG test report levels are low, you’ll probably get a second test in a few days to see if your levels are rising or falling. Your low hCG levels may indicate one of the following if they are lower than anticipated and do not rise:
- Miscalculated gestational age: hCG levels would be lower than expected if conception occurred later than presumed.
- Possible miscarriage: since the placenta produces hCG, hCG levels will be low if development stops before the placenta is formed or is finished forming.
- Ectopic pregnancy: hCG levels do not rise as expected and may plateau with ectopic pregnancies.
- Blighted ovum: the fertilised egg implants in the uterus wall, but the embryo fails to develop.
ALSO READ: After How Many Weeks IVF Pregnancy Is Considered Safe
What Do High Beta hCG Levels Mean?
Some uncommon complications can result in elevated levels of Beta hCG. However, higher-than-expected hCG levels are less medically concerning than low hCG levels. Up until the second trimester, beta-hCG levels typically increase before starting to decline. Your high hCG levels could be because of the following reasons:
- A multiple pregnancy: twins or triplets could be present. Multiples are not uncommon in those who have undergone fertility treatments.
- Incorrect conception date: the pregnancy could be more advanced than suspected.
- Molar pregnancy: a rare complication that occurs when a mass of tissue grows inside the uterus instead of a placenta. This complication is usually discovered at around 12 weeks of gestation.
What are the Uses of Beta-hCG Tests?
During an early prenatal visit, the beta-hCG test may be performed to confirm pregnancy (as a follow-up to a positive at-home or in-office urine test). Here are the main uses of the Beta hCG test during pregnancy:
- To confirm an early pregnancy
The Beta hCG test can detect pregnancy even before a urine test shows a clear result. It measures the exact hormone level in your blood.
- To check how the pregnancy is progressing
In early pregnancy, hCG levels usually rise every 48 – 72 hours. By repeating the test, your doctor checks whether the increase looks healthy.
- Monitor pregnancy after IVF
If you have undergone IVF, this test confirms implantation and helps track early development.
- Identify possible pregnancy concerns
If hCG levels rise too slowly, drop, or are unusually high, your doctor may investigate further with this test to rule out problems.
- To support ultrasound findings
Doctors combine hCG reports with ultrasound results to get a clearer picture of your pregnancy.
What is the Beta hCG Test Price?
The beta hCG test cost is usually affordable and easily available at most diagnostic labs. In India, the Beta hCG test price generally ranges between ₹500 to ₹800. The cost can vary depending on:
- The city you live in
- The laboratory or hospital you choose
- Whether it is done as a standalone test or part of a package
- Home sample collection charges, if you opt for it
However, some premium labs may charge slightly more. So, always check the price of the test before finalising any clinic for the Beta hCG test.
If you are unsure, you can speak to Crysta IVF for better costing and know the exact cost in your area.
ALSO READ: Best Sleeping Positions During Pregnancy
What is the Difference Between Beta hCG Test and the hCG Test?
Both tests almost sound similar, but they are very different from one another. Here is the main difference between the Beta hCG test and the HCG test:
| Basis of Comparison | hCG Test | Beta hCG Test |
| What it Detects | The hCG test detects the presence of the hCG hormone in the body. | The beta hCG test measures the exact amount of hCG hormone in the blood. |
| Result Type | Yes/No (Pregnant or Not Pregnant) | Numerical value (mIU/mL) |
| Sample Used | It usually involves testing by urine, which is done at home. | It is usually done by using your blood sample. |
| Use After IVF | The hCG test is not reliable for monitoring pregnancy after IVF | The beta hCG test is commonly used 10- 14 days after embryo transfer. |
| Detecting Complications | Cannot detect abnormalities | Helps identify concerns like slow-rising or unusually high levels |
Can Beta hCG Test Detect Problems in Pregnancy?
Yes, the beta hCG test can detect problems in pregnecny but it cannot give an accurate diagnosis alone.
The Beta hCG test shows how much pregnancy hormone is present in your blood. In early pregnancy, your hCG levels should rise steadily, usually every 48 – 72 hours. If the levels do not increase properly, rise very slowly, or start falling, your doctor may look deeper into the cause.
The causes can vary depending on the situation. For example,
- If hCG levels rise slowly, it may suggest that the pregnancy is not happening as expected.
- If levels drop, it may indicate a possible early miscarriage.
- If levels are unusually high, your doctor may check for multiple pregnancy or other conditions.
However, one single report cannot confirm a problem. Your fertility expert may always look at the trend of your hCG levels and combine it with an ultrasound to understand what is happening.
Conclusion
The beta hCG test offers valuable insights into your pregnancy journey, but interpreting its results requires doctors guidance. While the provided ranges can offer a general idea to you, remember that individual factors and gestational age influence levels.
For personalised support and expert guidance throughout your fertility journey, consider Crysta IVF. Our team of experienced specialists utilises advanced technologies and compassionate care to help you achieve your parenthood dreams. Contact Crysta IVF today to discuss your unique needs and explore personalised treatment options.
FAQs About Beta hCG Test
What is a positive beta hCG test level?
A positive beta hCG test means the test detected Human Chorionic Gonadotropin (hCG) hormone in your blood, typically indicating pregnancy. Usually, if your report shows more than 25 mIU/mL, doctors consider it positive.
What level of beta hCG confirms pregnancy?
A beta hCG level above 25 mIU/mL confirms pregnancy. If your level is between 5 and 25 mIU/mL, your doctor may repeat the test after 48 hours to see if it rises properly.
When should a beta hCG test be done?
A beta hCG test should be done depending on your situation. Early detection can be done ten days after conception (though home tests might be negative then) or 10 – 14 days after IVF treatment.
What if my beta hCG level is lower than expected?
Lower-than-expected levels might raise concerns about potential complications like miscarriage or ectopic pregnancy. However, interpretation requires expertise, as individual variations and gestational age are important factors. Seek professional guidance.
What if my beta hCG level is higher than expected?
Elevated levels could indicate various possibilities, including multiples, gestational trophoblastic disease, or certain tumours. As with lower levels, professional interpretation is essential when considering your medical history.
How soon does Beta hCG show pregnancy?
Beta hCG can detect pregnancy as early as 6 – 10 days after implantation. This means it can show pregnancy even before your missed period in some cases.
Is 5 mIU/mL hCG positive?
No, a level of 5 mIU/mL is usually considered negative. Most doctors consider pregnancy positive when the level is above 25 mIU/mL. If your level falls between 5 and 25, your doctor may repeat the test.
Can hCG levels be wrong?
Yes, sometimes the hCG results can look confusing if the test is done too early. That is why doctors focus on repeating the test and checking the rise in levels instead of relying on a single report.
How often should Beta hCG be repeated?
In early pregnancy, doctors usually repeat the Beta hCG test every 48 – 72 hours. This helps check whether the hormone level is rising properly.
