Wondering whether you might be pregnant? The first step toward finding out is by taking a pregnancy test. But knowing which kind to take and at what time is essential for receiving accurate results.
Read on to learn more about the different options available for pregnancy testing and what to do if you receive a positive result.
Looking for free pregnancy testing? Contact Bright Hope Pregnancy Support Centers to schedule a confidential appointment.
How Does a Pregnancy Test Work?
The moment you become pregnant, your body begins producing human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG). This special hormone doubles quickly in your body.
A pregnancy test works by detecting levels of hCG in your blood or urine.
How Are Blood and Urine Pregnancy Tests Different?
Both blood and urine pregnancy tests detect hCG levels in your body. However, they are administered differently.
Urine Test
An at-home pregnancy test uses urine. It can be bought over the counter and is widely available. This type of test involves urinating onto the test stick. If you’re pregnant and hCG levels are detectable, the test will give a positive result.
Urine tests can detect hCG levels in your body as early as 10 days after conception (the moment you become pregnant). However, waiting until the first day of your missed menstrual period before taking the test will reduce the chances of a false negative (which is when you’re pregnant but take the test for hCG levels to be detectable).
Blood Test
A blood pregnancy test uses blood instead of urine to detect hCG levels. However, unlike urine pregnancy tests, these tests are more expensive and must be done at a physician’s office.
To take a blood pregnancy test, a sample of your blood will be taken. If hCG is detected, you will receive a positive result. Since this type of test can detect hCG earlier than a urine test, the chance of a false positive is reduced.
What If I Receive a Positive Result?
If you’ve received a positive result on a pregnancy test, don’t panic. You’re likely feeling many overwhelming emotions, and we’re here to help. At Bright Hope Pregnancy Support Services, we offer free pregnancy resources that can help you make an informed decision about how to move forward.
We can help you confirm your pregnancy through a limited ultrasound. This is a vital next step, as it will reveal key details that will keep you safe and healthy. Contact us today to schedule a free, confidential appointment.
