If you're reading this article, chances are you want more in-depth information about pregnancy tests. In this article, we are going to give you all the necessary information you need about pregnancy tests, how they work and how to use them correctly.
How does a pregnancy test work?
Pregnancy tests detect a hormone called human chorionic gonadotropin ( HCG ), which is produced by the placenta after the egg is fertilized by sperm. This hormone is found in urine and can be detected using a pregnancy test . Pregnancy tests can be done using morning urine or at any time of the day.
Pregnancy tests can be done at home or at a doctor's. They are available in most pharmacies or in supermarkets and can be purchased without a prescription! They are usually very easy to use and can provide results in minutes.
When to take a pregnancy test?
The ideal time to take a pregnancy test depends on each person and each pregnancy. However, most pregnancy tests can detect HCG in urine from the first day your period is late . Some women can even detect pregnancy several days before their period using more advanced pregnancy tests.
If you have pregnancy symptoms such as morning sickness, abdominal bloating, swollen breasts, missed periods , a significant delay in menstruation or great fatigue , it is recommended to take a pregnancy test as soon as possible.
The different types of pregnancy tests
There are two types of pregnancy tests:
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Urine pregnancy tests: are the most common and are available in most pharmacies or in supermarkets.
- Blood pregnancy tests: are performed by a healthcare professional and are more accurate and reliable than urine pregnancy tests.
Urine pregnancy tests can be carried out at home, while blood pregnancy tests (= blood test) are generally carried out in the hospital or in an analysis laboratory by a health professional.
How to use a pregnancy test? And how to use it well?
When using a pregnancy test, it is important to follow the instructions that come with the test.
Here are some general steps you can take to perform a pregnancy test at home:
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Collect urine in a clean, dry container.
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Open the pregnancy test and remove the test strip.
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Immerse the strip in the urine up to the line indicated on the test.
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Wait the time indicated in the instructions (usually between 1 and 5 minutes) to read the result.
The result can be either positive (two lines on the test) or negative (only one line on the test). On some tests, the result can be displayed in different ways with symbols (+ -), the words "pregnant or not pregnant", some even specify the number of weeks of pregnancy that have passed since conception! It is important to read the instructions provided with the test to know the waiting time and the correct interpretation of the result.
Please note that pregnancy tests are not always 100% accurate . If you test positive, it is recommended that you see a healthcare professional to confirm pregnancy and to discuss your options for prenatal care.
What to do after the pregnancy test?
In case of positive test
If you test positive, it is recommended that you schedule an appointment with your doctor to confirm pregnancy and discuss your prenatal care options.
In case of negative test
If you get a negative result but still have pregnancy symptoms, it's possible the test was taken too soon or there is another explanation for your symptoms. You can repeat the test after a few days or consult your doctor for a more accurate diagnosis.
