What is the purpose of this test?
The Pregnancy Progression Blood Test Panel includes two specific blood tests: the Human Chorionic Gonadotropin (hCG), Quantitative Blood Test, and the Progesterone Blood Test. These tests are conducted during pregnancy and are designed to monitor the levels of two essential hormones in the body - hCG and progesterone. The hCG, Quantitative blood test, checks for the level of hCG in the blood, a hormone produced by the placenta during pregnancy. The level of hCG in the blood can provide valuable information to doctors and healthcare providers about the health status of the pregnancy, as well as the potential risks of complications such as ectopic pregnancy or miscarriage.
On the other hand, the progesterone blood test checks for the level of progesterone in the blood. Progesterone is a hormone that is produced by the ovaries and is essential for maintaining a healthy pregnancy. The level of progesterone can help doctors and healthcare providers to identify potential risks of complications such as preterm labor or miscarriage. Overall, these two tests included in the Pregnancy Progression Blood Test Panel are essential tools in monitoring the health and progress of a pregnancy. By providing information about the levels of hCG and progesterone in the blood, doctors and healthcare providers can take appropriate action to ensure the health and safety of both the mother and the baby.
The Pregnancy Progression Blood Test Panel includes:
Human Chorionic Gonadotropin (hCG), QN - HCG is a hormone that the placenta produces. For the first 10 weeks or so of pregnancy, hCG levels typically increase, then level off and begin to decrease. The majority of pregnancy tests use the detection of hCG as confirmation of pregnancy.
Progesterone - Progesterone is a hormone originally produced by the ovaries and, later, by the placenta during pregnancy. During the first trimester, progesterone levels usually rise and then level out.
Benefits of the Pregnancy Progression Blood Test Panel:
- Early Pregnancy Confirmation: This panel can help detect the presence of human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG), a hormone produced during pregnancy, providing an early confirmation of pregnancy before physical symptoms or a home pregnancy test may indicate.
- Quantitative hCG Measurement: The hCG, QN blood test included in this panel can measure the concentration of hCG in the blood, offering quantitative information about the pregnancy progression. This can help monitor whether hCG levels are increasing appropriately, which is important for a healthy pregnancy.
- Assessment of Pregnancy Viability: Serial hCG measurements can be used to assess the viability of the pregnancy. A healthy pregnancy typically involves a steady increase in hCG levels during the early weeks.
- Detection of Potential Issues: Certain blood markers in a pregnancy panel may help identify potential issues, such as miscarriage or other pregnancy complications, which can impact the health of both the mother and the baby.
- Monitoring Hormone Levels: This panel includes monitoring of the hormone progesterone, which plays a crucial role in supporting the early stages of pregnancy.
When should I order a Pregnancy Progression Blood Test Panel?
A Pregnancy Progression Blood Test Panel is typically ordered to monitor the progress of a pregnancy. The test is usually performed in the first trimester and can help determine the health of the fetus and identify any potential complications. Here are some common symptoms that may indicate a need for a Pregnancy Progression Blood Test Panel:
- Vaginal bleeding or spotting
- Abdominal pain or cramping
- Nausea and vomiting
- Fatigue and weakness
- Breast tenderness and swelling
- Absence of fetal movement
If you experience any of these symptoms, it's essential to speak with your healthcare provider as soon as possible. They can help determine if a Pregnancy Progression Blood Test Panel or other tests are necessary to evaluate your pregnancy's health and ensure the best possible outcome for you and your baby.
LC Sample ReportQD Sample Report
Preparation:
No fasting is required. Patients should stop biotin consumption at least 72 hours prior to the collection.
Test Results:
2-3 days. May take longer based on weather, holiday, or lab delays.
Details:
The results for this panel are reported in quantitative blood measurements for both hormones.