Blood Tests
Blood tests can be ordered by your doctor to detect the levels of hCG in the blood. There are two basic types of blood tests for pregnancy:
- Qualitative hCG blood test: this test checks whether the body produces any hCG. If you are pregnant, it gives a clear yes or no answer.
- Quantitative blood test for hCG: This test measures the specific blood level of hCG.
If your level of hCG is higher or lower than expected based on how far you think you’re pregnant, your doctor may order additional tests. In a couple of days, they may include an ultrasound or repeat the hCG examination. The most common reason for the existence of an irregular hCG level is to be unaware of your dates. This would mean that in the pregnancy you are either farther away or not as far as you anticipated.
Quantitative hCG blood testing is very reliable because the exact amount of hCG in the blood is measured. It can help detect lower hormone levels than a qualitative hCG blood test or urine test.
HCG may be identified faster than urine tests by blood tests. Blood testing is usually more costly than home testing and urine testing, and you have to wait longer for your results. The results of blood testing may take more than a week to deliver, and sometimes two.