Beta hCG
Also written: β-hCG
What it measures
A hormone present in pregnancy, measurable in blood or urine.
Why it is ordered
Confirms pregnancy, and in some situations is repeated a few days apart to observe the trend.
How to prepare
No fasting. The blood test is more sensitive and earlier than a urine stick.
Units
mIU/mL — convert here
What to ask
- Should it be repeated in a few days
- What does this say alongside the ultrasound
This page does not include reference ranges and does not say whether your number is high or low. Reference ranges differ between laboratories and between people — read yours on your own report, with your clinician.