How do pregnancy tests work? They seem simple enough, but can they really be trusted? When is the best time to take them for best results? How often do false results happen?
When you think you might be pregnant, these are all legitimate questions that you might have. Fortunately for you, we have all the answers to those questions and more below, so keep reading.
How do pregnancy tests work?
How do pregnancy tests work? Well, pregnancy tests are simple, really. The test contains enzymes that cling on to HCG (Human Chorionic Gonadotropin) that is found in urine and blood during pregnancy. If a test is taken and there is HCG, that is what makes that second pink line pop up in the test window of a urine pregnancy test.
Different Types
There are two different types of pregnancy tests; urine and blood. Urine pregnancy tests can be bought at basically any store and used at home. Blood tests must be performed in a doctor’s office by a medical laboratory. While both types are accurate if done at the right time, blood tests give exact amounts of HCG in the body, where urine tests just show its existence.
When should I test?
While some urine pregnancy tests claim that they can detect pregnancy early, it’s best practice to wait until the day you expect your period to test. Before that, the results might not be accurate. Inaccurate results might lead to unnecessary stress. It’s so hard to wait, but it really is best.
Testing with your first morning urine is also recommended to boost accuracy. That hormone HCG will have built up in your urine over night and the concentration is highest.
How accurate are they?
As mentioned above, the accuracy depends on when you take it. If you wait to take it until the day you expect you period, those tests are 99% accurate.
Get a zero cost test here
If finances are an issue or you just want the comfort of a medical professional doing it, make an appointment with us. We offer zero-cost pregnancy tests as part of both our pregnancy test and ultrasound appointments and our pre-abortion screenings. There is comfort in certainty, so schedule your appointment online anytime to get the answers you need.