If you’re trying to conceive, one of the most common questions you may have is about the HCG test. You’ve probably heard about it, especially in relation to pregnancy tests, but how does it work, and when should you take it? Whether trying to confirm a pregnancy or seeking early confirmation for peace of mind, understanding the HCG test can give you the clarity you need.
In this article, we’ll cover everything you need to know about the HCG test in Singapore, including how it works, when it’s typically used, and where to do it.
- Focus: General overview of the HCG test. It explains both urine and blood tests for HCG and compares their differences.
- Who Is This For? Those seeking early pregnancy detection, whether using home tests or medical tests.
- Key Details: This article includes the types of HCG tests (urine and blood), how they work, and when to take each test. It also provides general information about when to get tested and where to do so in Singapore
What Is an HCG Test?
HCG (Human Chorionic Gonadotropin) is a hormone produced by the placenta shortly after an embryo attaches to the uterine lining. It is often referred to as the pregnancy hormone because it’s one of the first indicators that a woman is pregnant. It plays a crucial role in maintaining the pregnancy in its early stages by supporting the corpus luteum (the tissue that produces progesterone).
An HCG test detects the presence of this hormone in the blood or urine. The blood test, known as the serum HCG test, is the most accurate way to measure HCG levels and is usually conducted in a clinical setting. The urine test is what most people use for home pregnancy tests and is also based on detecting the presence of HCG, but it’s typically less sensitive than a blood test.
Types of HCG Tests
There are two types of HCG tests:
- Urine HCG Test (Home Pregnancy Test): This is typically available over-the-counter at pharmacies, and it’s an easy, at-home method to check if you’re pregnant. It detects the HCG levels in your urine.
- Blood HCG Test (Serum Test): This test is done in a clinic or hospital. It is more sensitive than a urine test and can detect pregnancy much earlier—typically 6-10 days after ovulation—and provide more precise measurements of HCG levels, which can help doctors track the health of the pregnancy over time.
When Should You Take an HCG Test?
The timing of the HCG test can significantly affect its accuracy. Here’s a breakdown of when to take the test for the best results:
1. Home Pregnancy Test (Urine Test)
For home pregnancy tests, it’s best to wait until after you’ve missed your period. This gives enough time for the HCG levels to build up in your urine for accurate results. Testing too early may result in a false negative because the HCG levels might not be high enough for detection yet.
- Best Time to Take the Test: 1 week after your missed period or at least 14 days after ovulation.
2. Blood HCG Test (Serum Test)
The blood HCG test is much more sensitive than the urine test and can detect low levels of HCG even before a missed period. This makes it the go-to test for early pregnancy detection and monitoring pregnancy progress.
- Best Time to Take the Test: Early detection can be performed about 6-10 days after conception. If you’re undergoing fertility treatments or hormone therapies, your doctor might order serial blood tests to monitor HCG levels over time to confirm healthy pregnancy progression.
How Does the HCG Test Work?
The HCG test detects the presence of human chorionic gonadotropin in your urine or blood. HCG is produced shortly after fertilisation, and its levels begin to rise dramatically in the first few weeks of pregnancy. Here’s how the tests work:
- Urine Test (Home Pregnancy Test)
- Step 1: You urinate on a stick or place a few drops of urine onto a test strip.
- Step 2: The strip contains antibodies that bind with HCG molecules.
- Step 3: If HCG is detected, a coloured line will appear, confirming a positive pregnancy result.
The test is typically easy to read and provides results in 3-5 minutes. However, it is less accurate in very early pregnancy and might give a false negative if done too soon after conception.
- Blood Test (Serum HCG Test) A blood test for HCG is more sensitive and accurate than a urine test. This test measures the exact amount of HCG in your blood and can help doctors determine:
- The age of the pregnancy
- Whether the pregnancy is progressing well or if there might be complications, such as an ectopic pregnancy or miscarriage
The blood test can detect HCG levels at very low concentrations and can be done as early as 6-10 days after conception. This is why it’s preferred for those who need early confirmation of pregnancy.
Where to Get an HCG Test in Singapore
In Singapore, getting an HCG test is relatively simple and accessible. Here’s where you can go for testing:
1. Private Clinics
Many private clinics in Singapore offer HCG blood tests for pregnancy confirmation and to monitor early pregnancy health. These clinics often provide quick appointments, and results are typically available within 24-48 hours.
2. Public Hospitals
For those seeking HCG testing in a more comprehensive setting, Singapore General Hospital (SGH) and KK Women’s and Children’s Hospital provide high-quality obstetrics and gynaecology services. These hospitals are ideal for those with high-risk pregnancies or requiring ongoing care.
3. Fertility Clinics
For those undergoing fertility treatments, such as IVF or IUI, many fertility clinics in Singapore offer HCG blood tests to confirm pregnancy and monitor its progress after the treatment.
Final Thoughts
The HCG test is a vital tool for confirming pregnancy and monitoring its early stages. Whether you’re trying to conceive, undergoing fertility treatments, or simply trying to confirm a pregnancy, understanding how the test works and when to take it can make the process easier and more reassuring.
In Singapore, the test is widely available in private clinics, hospitals, and fertility centers. Always consult your healthcare provider to determine the best time to take the test and the type that will provide the most accurate results.
Anna Haotanto is the Founder of Zora Health and a passionate advocate for women’s empowerment. Anna’s personal experiences with egg-freezing, PCOS, perimenopause and the challenges of fertility have fueled her mission to provide high-quality information, financing, and support to help women and couples navigate their fertility journeys with confidence. She is also recognised for her achievements in finance, entrepreneurship, and women’s empowerment, and has been featured in various media outlets. You can also follow her on Linkedin or Instagram.
