How Long Does HCG Remain In Body?

Posted on Tue, 11 Nov 2014

Medically reviewed by Ask A Doctor - 24x7 Medical Review Team

Tue, 11 Nov 2014 Answered on

Fri, 5 Dec 2014 Last reviewed on

Question : Hi I have been on hcg diet by injections , and have a 8day missed period and the pregnancy test said I am pregnant so I've had a 7 wk break and did not take the hcg so done another test and it's still saying I'm pregnant .shall I wait another week ? Because I'm not sure how long hcg takes to get out if your system ?
I have swollen boobs spotty skin mild pains in lower abdo?

Answered by Dr. Aarti Abraham (-3 hours later)

Brief Answer:
TEST IS RELIABLE AFTER A 7 WEEK GAP

Detailed Answer:
Hello
Thanks for writing to us with your health concern.
HCG gets metabolized in the body within 24 - 48 hours, and traces might linger at the most for a couple of weeks.
Since you have had the 7 week break, the test is most reliable.
Do not take any more tests, just go for a pelvic transvaginal ultrasound scan.
It would confirm the pregnancy, and at the same time, let you know of any other pelvic condition that might be causing the delayed period.
All the best
Please feel free to discuss further.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Vaishalee Punj

Follow up: Dr. Aarti Abraham (18 hours later)

Sorry I did mean a 7 day gap from hcg not 7weeks

Answered by Dr. Aarti Abraham (28 minutes later)

Brief Answer:
REPEAT AFTER A WEEK

Detailed Answer:
In that case, please repeat the test after a week.
If still positive, get a pelvic transvaginal ultrasound scan done for confirmation.
Take care

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Bhagyalaxmi Nalaparaju