Human Chorionic Gonadotropin (hCG)
Here’s what it reflects — and what to do about it.
Longetic pulls together every lab and record you’ve had, follows how Human Chorionic Gonadotropin (hCG) changes over time, and explains what’s shifting — so you walk into your next appointment prepared, with reminders for retests along the way.
What is Human Chorionic Gonadotropin (hCG)?
A hormone produced mainly during pregnancy, which can also act as a marker for certain tumors.
Human chorionic gonadotropin is made by the placenta in pregnancy, which is why pregnancy tests look for it, and a quantitative blood test can track how it rises early on. Outside of pregnancy, higher levels can be associated with certain tumors of the reproductive organs or, rarely, other cancers, so it can be used as a tumor marker in specific situations. In people who are not pregnant, levels are normally very low or undetectable, and results are always read in the context of why the test was ordered.
What to know about Human Chorionic Gonadotropin (hCG)
Understanding Human Chorionic Gonadotropin (hCG) means knowing what it reflects, what tends to move it, and the signs that suggest it’s worth a closer look — so you can bring the right questions to your next appointment.
This glossary entry is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Read our Medical Disclaimer.
References
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Official sources
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Peer-reviewed research
Original research articles and systematic reviews published in indexed journals and verified through PubMed or DOI.