When Can hCG Be Detected in Early Pregnancy?

Discover when hCG levels can be detected and what it means for early pregnancy confirmation.

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Human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) levels can typically be detected around 3 to 4 weeks into pregnancy. This hormone is produced after a fertilized egg attaches to the uterine lining and is an early indicator of pregnancy. Home pregnancy tests are designed to check for hCG in urine, offering an early confirmation.

FAQs & Answers

  1. What is hCG and why is it important in pregnancy? hCG is a hormone produced during pregnancy that helps maintain the corpus luteum, essential for embryo implantation and growth.
  2. Can hCG be detected before a missed period? Yes, hCG can often be detected as early as 3-4 weeks after conception, although testing too early may yield false negatives.
  3. How accurate are home pregnancy tests for detecting hCG? Home pregnancy tests are highly accurate when used according to the instructions and typically can detect hCG levels as low as 20-25 mIU/mL.