HCG Beta Total Maternal

An HCG Beta Total Maternal test measures the level of the hormone human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) that is produced during pregnancy and can be detected as early as 10 to 12 days after conceiving. This test is also done to diagnose abnormal conditions not related to pregnancy that can raise hCG levels.

The hCG hormone is produced by the placenta during pregnancy, making its presence in the blood a useful indicator of pregnancy. This hormone is used to determine the exact age of the fetus, detect any abnormalities like ectopic pregnancies (when a fertilized egg attaches in an abnormal area), molar pregnancies, and possible miscarriages, and identify Down syndrome in an unborn child.

You may be advised an HCG Beta Total Maternal test if there are signs and symptoms that suggest pregnancy, an ectopic pregnancy, or a pregnancy that is not progressing in a healthy manner. The signs of an ectopic pregnancy may include abnormal vaginal bleeding, low back pain, pain in the lower region of the stomach or pelvic area, cramping on one side of the pelvis, etc. This test is used as a diagnostic tool to check for pregnancy prior to surgery or other medical treatments. This test also helps diagnose gestational trophoblastic disease (GTD), a term used for pregnancy-related tumors. Usually, no special preparation is needed for this test; eat or drink as per your daily routine. However, talk to your doctor about all the pre-test instructions. 

Test result ranges are approximate and may differ slightly between different labs depending on the methodology and laboratory guidelines. Talk to your doctor about your specific test results. Narrate your complete medical history to help the doctor correlate your clinical and laboratory findings. The test results will help them determine your medical condition, make recommendations for lifestyle modifications such as diet and exercise, decide whether or not medication will be required to manage your condition, and formulate your overall treatment plan.