How Does A Pregnancy Test Work?
When a woman becomes pregnant, her body produces a hormone called human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG). Her body makes this hormone right after a fertilized egg attaches to the wall of her uterus.
As hCG builds in her body, it eventually enters her bloodstream and urine. If a pregnancy test detects hCG in her urine, she’s pregnant.
When Should I Take a Pregnancy Test?
Our pregnancy tests are highly sensitive and can detect pregnancy earlier than most. Your monthly menstrual cycle determines when to take a pregnancy test.
If your periods are pretty regular (every 28 to 30 days), you can take a pregnancy test a day or two after your missed period. If your periods are irregular, we suggest waiting four or five days. You will get more accurate results the longer you wait.
You May Not Be Pregnant
There is a slight possibility you could get a positive result on your pregnancy test and not be pregnant. The Mayo Clinic reports that up to 20% of known pregnancies end in a natural miscarriage.
Because of the number of hormones in your body, it takes time for your body to realize you are no longer pregnant. It’s possible to get a positive pregnancy test result for several days or even weeks after a miscarriage.
At-Home Pregnancy Tests
At-home pregnancy tests are reliable. However, some women take them too early or don’t completely follow directions.
If you got a positive result on a home pregnancy test, you might be wondering if you got the correct results. We recommend getting a second opinion by taking one of our pregnancy tests.
What If My Pregnancy Test Comes Back Positive?
After a pregnancy test, our nurse will then assess your eligibility for a no-cost ultrasound. If eligible, she will call you to schedule a free ultrasound appointment.
