Why get tested?
To confirm and monitor pregnancy or to diagnose trophoblastic disease or germ cell tumours

When to get tested?
As early as 10 days after a missed menstrual period (some methods can detect hCG even earlier, at one week after conception) or if a doctor thinks that your symptoms suggest ectopic pregnancy, a failing pregnancy, trophoblastic disease or germ cell tumours

Sample required?
A urine sample collected first thing in the morning or a blood sample drawn from a vein in the arm