Pregnancy testing is used to determine whether a woman is pregnant. There are two main types of pregnancy tests:

1. Home Pregnancy Tests (HPTs)

These tests are available over-the-counter and are typically used to test urine for the presence of the hormone human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG), which is produced during pregnancy.

How they work:

• Home pregnancy tests involve either dipping a test strip into a urine sample or placing the test stick in the stream of urine.
• The test will show a result in a few minutes, often with lines or a plus/minus symbol indicating whether or not the test is positive.

When to take the test:

• Most tests are accurate if taken at least one day after a missed period, as hCG levels rise significantly after conception.
• For earlier testing, some sensitive tests may be used up to five days before a missed period, though results may be less reliable.

Accuracy:

• When used correctly, home pregnancy tests are about 99% accurate. However, accuracy can be affected by factors like the timing of the test (testing too early), not following instructions carefully, or using an expired test.

False negatives:

• If you test too early or dilute the urine by drinking too much fluid, a false negative result (indicating you’re not pregnant when you are) may occur.

False positives:

• These are rare, but can happen in cases of chemical pregnancy (early miscarriage), certain medical conditions, or medications that contain hCG.

2. Blood Pregnancy Test (Beta-hCG Test)

This test is done at a doctor’s office or clinic and checks the levels of hCG in a blood sample. There are two types:

• Qualitative blood test: It simply tells you if you’re pregnant or not.
• Quantitative blood test (beta-hCG test): This measures the exact level of hCG in the blood and can detect pregnancy earlier than a urine test. It can also provide information about the pregnancy’s health, such as whether hCG levels are rising appropriately.

When to get a blood test:

• A blood test can detect pregnancy about 6-8 days after ovulation, even before a missed period, making it more sensitive than home urine tests.

Accuracy:

• Blood tests are nearly 100% accurate when conducted properly by a healthcare provider.

Symptoms to Consider for Testing:

Pregnancy symptoms can vary but common early signs include:

• A missed period
• Nausea or vomiting (morning sickness)
• Breast tenderness or swelling
• Fatigue
• Increased urination
• Mood changes

Next Steps After a Positive Test:

If you get a positive result on a home pregnancy test or blood test, it’s important to follow up with a healthcare provider for confirmation and to discuss next steps, including prenatal care.

If the result is negative but you still suspect pregnancy (e.g., if periods remain irregular or other symptoms persist), it may be worth repeating the test in a few days or consulting a healthcare provider.