Stacey Berger
Pregnancy tests are designed to detect the presence of the hormone human chorionic gonadotropin (HCG) in your body, which is only produced when you're pregnant. The best time to take a pregnancy test is after you've missed a period, as this is when the tests are most reliable. Testing before a missed period can increase the risk of a false negative result, as your body needs time to increase its levels of HCG for a reliable result. However, some very sensitive tests can be used before a missed period. If you have irregular cycles, it's recommended that you wait at least 21 days after having unprotected sex before taking a test.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| When to take a pregnancy test | It is best to wait until at least the first day of a missed period to take any test. For a more accurate result, take the test a week after your missed period. If you have an irregular cycle, take the test at least 21 days after having unprotected sex. |
| How to take a pregnancy test | Collect a urine sample at any time of the day in a cup and dip a testing stick into the liquid. Alternatively, place the testing stick into the area of your expected urine stream so that it will catch your urine midstream. |
| Accuracy of pregnancy tests | Home pregnancy tests are typically 99% accurate if used correctly. |
What You'll Learn
When to take a pregnancy test
Pregnancy tests are most accurate when taken after you've missed a period. This is because the test looks for a hormone called human chorionic gonadotropin (HCG) in your urine, which is released when a fertilised egg attaches to the lining of your uterus, marking the beginning of a pregnancy. This typically happens around 6-10 days after conception, and a pregnancy test can detect HCG in your urine from around 7-9 days after ovulation.
If you take a test too early, before there is enough HCG in your urine, you may get a false negative result. Testing before your missed period can increase the risk of a false negative result. However, some very sensitive tests can be used even before you miss a period. These tests can detect pregnancy in some people as early as 6 days before your missed period, or 10 days after conception.
If you have irregular periods, or you don't get periods, it's best to take the test at least 21 days after having unprotected sex.
If you get a negative result but still think you might be pregnant, wait a few days and try again. If you still get a negative result but your period hasn't arrived, speak to your doctor.
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How does a pregnancy test work?
A pregnancy test is a way to determine if you're pregnant. If your test is positive, it means you're pregnant, and if it's negative, it means you're not. Pregnancy tests work by detecting the presence and amount of the hormone human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG or HCG) in your blood or urine.
HCG is known as the pregnancy hormone because it is produced by the cells that form the placenta and provide nourishment to the growing embryo. This hormone is only present in the body during pregnancy. From the moment an egg is fertilised, the body starts to undergo changes to support the cells that will develop into a baby. One of the first signs of pregnancy is the production of hCG, which can be detected in the blood and urine about six to 14 days after conception.
Home pregnancy tests are the most common type and are available over the counter. They are also inexpensive and easy to use. These tests come in a box that contains one or two long sticks. You urinate on the stick, and the result appears after a few minutes.
There are also blood tests, which are typically carried out in a healthcare provider's office. For this type of test, a sample of blood is taken and sent to a lab to determine the amount of hCG in the blood. Blood tests are rarely done because they are more expensive and tend to produce the same result as urine tests. However, they can detect pregnancy sooner and are the only tests that show the specific amount of hCG in the body.
The presence of hCG leads to a positive pregnancy test result, while the lack of hCG causes a negative result. False negatives can occur if the test is taken too early and hCG levels didn't have enough time to rise.
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Accuracy of pregnancy tests
The accuracy of pregnancy tests depends on the type of test, the timing of the test, and whether the user follows the instructions correctly.
Types of Pregnancy Tests
There are two main types of pregnancy tests: urine tests and blood tests. Urine tests are the most common type and can be done at home or a healthcare provider's office. Blood tests are typically done at a healthcare provider's office and are more expensive and inconvenient. However, they can detect pregnancy sooner and show the specific amount of HCG in the body.
Timing of the Test
It is recommended to take a pregnancy test after missing a period for the most accurate result. Testing too early may result in a false negative because the body needs time to increase its levels of HCG. Testing before a missed period can increase the risk of a false negative result.
User Instructions
Home pregnancy tests are typically 99% accurate if used correctly. It is important to follow the instructions provided with the test, including checking the expiration date and waiting for the recommended time to view the results. Testing with the first morning urine or after holding it for several hours is also recommended, as this increases the concentration of HCG in the urine.
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Where to get a pregnancy test
There are several options available for those looking to take a pregnancy test.
Home Pregnancy Tests
Home pregnancy tests are a quick and easy way to find out if you're pregnant. They are also highly accurate, inexpensive, and can be purchased at most drug and grocery stores, as well as some convenience and dollar stores. They are also available at pharmacists and some supermarkets.
Doctor's Office
Pregnancy tests are also available at a doctor's office or community clinic. These tests are usually urine tests but sometimes a blood test is used, especially if there is a suspected problem with the pregnancy.
Health Services
Free pregnancy tests are often available from health services, such as sexual health services and some young people's services. In the UK, Brook centres for under-25s also provide free pregnancy tests.
Planned Parenthood Health Center
Planned Parenthood Health Centers are another option for those looking for a pregnancy test. These are usually urine tests but sometimes a blood test is used.
Fake Clinics
Be aware that there are fake clinics, known as Crisis Pregnancy Centers, that offer free pregnancy tests. These are not run by medical professionals and do not always provide honest facts about pregnancy and options.
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What to do if the result is positive
If you've taken a pregnancy test and the result is positive, there are a few steps you should take. Firstly, consider taking a second test to confirm the result, especially if you're experiencing any doubts about the accuracy of the first test. False positives are uncommon, but they can occur due to certain medications, medical conditions, or a recent miscarriage.
Next, you should make an appointment with your doctor or midwife. They will be able to confirm your pregnancy and provide you with prenatal care. This appointment usually takes place around the eighth week of pregnancy, but it may be sooner if you have an existing medical condition, previous miscarriages, or are experiencing abnormal symptoms. During this appointment, your healthcare provider will take your medical and social history, perform an ultrasound to date the pregnancy, and review any medications you're currently taking.
In the meantime, start taking prenatal vitamins if you haven't already. Folic acid is particularly important during pregnancy, as it helps prevent complications during fetal development. It's also crucial to adopt healthy habits, such as refraining from smoking, drinking alcohol, or consuming raw fish and unpasteurized dairy products.
You may also want to consider who you want to tell about your pregnancy and when. Many people wait until after the first trimester to make the news public, as the risk of miscarriage decreases significantly during this time. However, it's entirely up to you when and how you want to share the news.
Lastly, focus on your health and take time to adjust to the news. Educate yourself about what to expect during pregnancy by reading books, listening to podcasts, or joining online forums. It's normal to experience a range of emotions, so be gentle with yourself and seek support from your partner, friends, or family if needed.
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Frequently asked questions
You can take a pregnancy test anytime after your period is late. Testing early helps to ensure that you get proper care for yourself and, if applicable, prenatal care for your baby. However, testing before a missed period can increase the risk of a false negative result.
In general, the best time is when you have your first morning pee, as hCG levels will be the most concentrated and easily detected. If you do it at another time of day, try to make sure your pee has been in your bladder for at least three hours.
If you take a pregnancy test at home and it’s positive, there are a few things you should do. Take your prenatal vitamins, pick a vitamin with folic acid included in the ingredient list, and start making healthy lifestyle choices, like quitting alcohol and smoking, reducing caffeine consumption, and following a healthy and nourishing diet. Contact your healthcare provider to confirm the result with a urine test or a blood test, which can provide more detailed information about the pregnancy, such as the hCG levels.
