We’ve come a long way since the first recorded pregnancy tests from ancient egyptians. Although we still rely on some of the same materials as in 1350 BC, namely urine samples, our technological advances have increased the speed and accuracy with which we receive pregnancy test results. Today we have the convenience of home pregnancy tests – handheld technology designed to detect a special pregnancy hormone, human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG), earlier than ever before.
How do pregnancy tests work?
Over-the-counter (OTC) pregnancy tests work by recognizing small amounts of hCG in your urine. hCG is a pregnancy hormone that your body starts producing after a fertilized egg attaches to the lining of the uterus. This pregnancy hormone can be detected in the blood or urine of a pregnant woman, however, urine tests are preferred as they are less invasive, more affordable and easily accessible. The New York Times wrote an article evaluating 26 different OTC pregnancy tests to help you determine what’s best for you based on your needs and budget.
Most home pregnancy tests are mid-stream urine tests that require you to insert the collection end of the test device into your urine stream while you urinate, traditionally known as a “urine stick” test. Some test kits also suggest collecting the urine in a cup and dipping the test tip into it. It is important to note that research showed that midstream tests are more accurate than immersion tests. A positive home urine pregnancy test combined with a missed period means you are pregnant. A negative urine test usually means you’re not.
When should I take a test?
It is recommended that you take the test no earlier than the first day of your missed period. Every day that passes since the beginning of pregnancy, the amount of hCG in your body increases. If you test too early and hCG has not yet been detected, it may give a false negative pregnancy test result. A false positive, also known as a chemical pregnancy, occurs when traces of hCG are detected in your urine but no pregnancy develops or you miscarry soon after. Tracking your cycle can be difficult if you have irregular periods, but in general, you should be able to calculate your expected start date by counting 28 days from the first day of your last period. For example – if your period started on January 7th, count 28 days from that first day (not when your period ended) and you can expect your next period sometime around February 3rd. There are also plenty of free period tracking apps that you can use if you’re not a fan of the “old school” way.
It is also recommended that you do a urine test with your first pee of the day or pee from a full bladder. Diluted samples may affect test results. Read the instructions carefully and set a timer as directed, as tests left unattended may give inaccurate readings.
Accuracy
There are two main types of pregnancy tests available. urine and blood tests. Because of the affordability, accuracy, and availability of OTC urine tests, most women use them to determine if they are pregnant. Urine pregnancy tests are accurate 99% of the time, which means –a urine test can detect hCG in 99% of cases on the first day of the missed period.
Blood tests are better at detecting trace amounts of hCG in your bloodstream. If you have received a positive result from a urine test and it is too early, your doctor may order a blood test to confirm that you are not experiencing a chemical pregnancy. Doctors may also order a blood test to check the levels of hCG in your system, as higher levels may indicate you’re carrying multiples.
Benefits of home pregnancy tests
There are many benefits to having access to OTC pregnancy tests:
- Privacy – This test can be performed in the privacy of your bathroom without the help of a medical professional.
- Accuracy – A positive OTC pregnancy test result on the first day of a missed period is accurate 99% of the time.
- Availability – You can purchase a home pregnancy test from your local pharmacy, drugstore, grocery store, and some department or dollar stores. Free pregnancy tests are offered at health centers and community organizations.
- Fast results – Results are provided after just a few minutes.
- Affordable – The majority of OTC pregnancy tests cost less than $15, making them much more affordable than a blood test.
- Ease of Use – Simple instructions are included with every home pregnancy test kit.
What should I do if the results are positive?
If you got a positive pregnancy test result combined with a missed period, congratulations, it’s safe to say you’re pregnant. You should start focusing on prenatal care and adopting a healthy lifestyle.
- Start taking a prenatal vitamin – us Total Prenatal + DHA The vitamins provide 100% of the daily values for pregnant women and are specially formulated with the nutrients that both mom and baby need. If you’re not big on taking pills, ours Total Prenatal Gummies they contain the same vital ingredients.
- Make an appointment with your OB/GYN – And the sooner the better. Prenatal care is essential for a healthy baby and a healthy pregnancy.
- Embrace a healthy lifestyle – Cut out alcohol, cigarettes and other unhealthy habits once you find out you’re pregnant. The first few weeks are the most critical when it comes to a developing baby’s health.
Getting a quick and accurate pregnancy test result is vital. If you’re not sure what’s next, we suggest checking out:
