When Can hCG Be Detected After Conception?
Discover when hCG can be detected after conception and the best methods for accurate testing.
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hCG (human chorionic gonadotropin) can potentially be detected around 1 week after conception. However, levels are usually low and may not be picked up by standard home pregnancy tests until a few days later. For more accurate results, it's typically recommended to wait until at least the first day of a missed period. If testing early, consider a blood test for hCG, which can detect pregnancy sooner than urine tests.
FAQs & Answers
- What is hCG and why is it important for pregnancy tests? hCG, or human chorionic gonadotropin, is a hormone produced during pregnancy. It is crucial for pregnancy tests because it's found at elevated levels in the urine and blood of pregnant individuals.
- How accurate are home pregnancy tests? Home pregnancy tests are generally accurate but can yield false negatives if taken too early or improperly. It's recommended to wait until the first day of missed period for reliable results.
- What are the signs of early pregnancy? Signs of early pregnancy can include missed periods, nausea, breast tenderness, and increased fatigue. However, the best way to confirm pregnancy is to take a test.
- Can hCG levels be too low to detect pregnancy? Yes, hCG levels can be low early in pregnancy, which might lead to a negative test result. For early detection, a blood test is more sensitive than a urine test.