hCG test

What is a hCG test?

A human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) stimulation test lets us to measure the amount of sex hormones being produced in the body.

This is often used when looking at possible hormone problems in puberty or differences in sex development.

It can also be used to check whether the testicles or ovaries can still make hormones when there are undescended testicles or typical genitalia.

How does the hCG test work?

In this test, we will give you medication to see how the testicles produce testosterone.

The test will take 4 days, and each appointment will last about 1 hour.

On your 1st appointment, we will take a blood sample. You will also be given an injection of hCG into your leg.

On your 2nd and 3rd you will get another injection of hCG into your leg

On your 4th day we will take another blood sample to measure the sex hormones in your body.

A local anaesthetic cream or cold spray will be put on you to help stop any pain and discomfort. Please arrive 30 minutes earlier than your appointment time to allow for this cream to work.

You do not need to fast before these procedures.

What about my medications?

If you have any prescribed medications, they should be taken as normal before you come in. Please double check this with your doctor if you are not sure.

What happens after my test?

You will be discharged once you have fully recovered from the test and feeling well.

When will my results come back?

The results take around 1 month to be analysed. Your consultant might write to you with the results or want to talk about them with you at your next appointment.

What happens if I cannot make my appointment?

Please make every effort to attend the appointment. If the date or time you have been given is not convenient or your child is unwell, please contact the Endocrine nurse on 0114 226 7815.