What Is Beta-hCG in Surrogacy?

Last updated: · · Based on data from 196+ surrogacy agency compensation packages

Beta-hCG (beta human chorionic gonadotropin) is the pregnancy hormone measured in a blood test approximately 10–14 days after an embryo transfer to determine if pregnancy occurred. A positive beta is one of the most anticipated milestones in a surrogate's journey.

Why Beta-hCG Matters for Surrogates

The "beta test" or "beta day" is the moment of truth after an embryo transfer. A positive result means the transfer worked. Beta levels are measured multiple times (usually 2–3 blood draws, 48 hours apart) to confirm the pregnancy is progressing normally. Rising beta numbers are a good sign; doubling every 48–72 hours indicates a healthy pregnancy.

How Beta-hCG Works in Surrogacy

After your embryo transfer, you wait approximately 10–14 days (the "two-week wait"). Then:

  1. You go to a lab for a blood draw
  2. The fertility clinic receives results (usually same day)
  3. They contact you (and the IPs) with results
  4. A second draw 48 hours later confirms numbers are rising
  5. If positive and rising, you schedule your first ultrasound (around week 6–7)

Real-World Example

A beta-hCG level above 25 mIU/mL on day 10 post-transfer is generally considered positive. Levels above 100 on day 14 are encouraging. Your fertility clinic will give you specific target numbers based on their protocol.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is beta-hCG in surrogacy?
Beta-hCG is a blood test that measures human chorionic gonadotropin — the pregnancy hormone. In surrogacy, it's the definitive first pregnancy test done 10–14 days after embryo transfer to confirm whether implantation occurred.
When is the beta-hCG test done after embryo transfer?
The beta-hCG blood draw is typically done 10–14 days after embryo transfer. Many clinics do two beta tests (2–3 days apart) to confirm the hCG level is rising appropriately, which indicates a healthy early pregnancy.
What beta-hCG level means you're pregnant after surrogacy transfer?
Generally, a beta-hCG level above 25–50 mIU/mL indicates pregnancy, though clinics vary on their threshold. More important than the single number is that levels roughly double every 48–72 hours in early pregnancy. Your clinic will interpret results in context.

Related Surrogacy Terms

Embryo Transfer Frozen Embryo Transfer (FET) Fetal Heartbeat IVF (In Vitro Fertilization) Mock Cycle
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Source: SurroScore's proprietary database of surrogate-reported compensation data and agency compensation packages, collected from direct agency outreach, public filings, and verified surrogate reviews. Data current as of March 2026.