How pregnancy tests work
Feel like you may be pregnant?
There is always a possibility for mistake, even with the most reliable birth control techniques. After all, only one sperm is required to fertilize an egg. Using an over-the-counter (OTC) pregnancy test is a simple way to determine whether or not that has occurred.
Typically, over-the-counter pregnancy tests check for the hormone human chorionic gonadotropin in your urine (HCG). Only when you are pregnant will HCG be present. Only if a fertilized egg attaches externally or to your uterine lining does the hormone come into play.
Your urine can be collected in a variety of methods for the test. You may need to: Depending on the exam you select:
- put your pee in a cup and test the substance with a tester stick.
- use an eyedropper to transfer a little bit of the pee you’ve collected in a cup into the designated container.
- such that it will collect your pee midstream, insert the testing stick into the region of your anticipated urine stream.
If conducted after a missed period, the majority of tests are 99 percent accurate. The fact that you can do it in solitude at home is the nicest part. Simply start the test, adhere to the directions, and watch the findings when the advised period of time has passed.
The tests will show your findings when the advised amount of time has passed in one of the following ways:
- a change in color
- a line
- a symbol, such as plus or minus
- the words “pregnant” or “not pregnant”
How soon can you take a pregnancy test?
For the best reliable result, you should wait to take a pregnancy test until the week after your missing period.
You should wait at least one to two weeks after having sex if you don’t want to wait till you’ve missed your period. Your body requires time to produce measurable quantities of HCG if you are pregnant. Following the successful implantation of an egg, this normally takes seven to twelve days.
If the test is administered too early in your cycle, you might get a false-positive result.
Here are several indications that a pregnancy test is in order.
You’ve missed your period
A missing menstruation is among the first and most dependable indicators of pregnancy.
It could be challenging to tell whether you’re late if you don’t constantly monitor your cycle. The average woman’s menstrual cycle lasts 28 days. If it has been more than a month since your last period, think about getting tested.
Remember that stress, dietary restrictions, physical activity, or specific medical issues might occasionally cause your period to be skipped or delayed.
If you suspect pregnant, pay attention to your flow as well. Light bleeding or spotting is typical in the first few weeks of pregnancy when the egg implants further into the uterine lining. Note any variations in the volume, consistency, or color of the blood.
If you experience bleeding and a positive pregnancy test, see your doctor.
You have cramps
Additionally, implantation might cause cramps that are comparable to period cramps. You could experience this soreness in the early stages of pregnancy and believe that your period will arrive soon, but it never does.
Sounds recognizable? Test yourself. Both by pregnancy and by woman do hormone levels differ.
Your breasts hurt
In order to promote the baby’s growth, estrogen and progesterone, which are produced in increasing amounts throughout pregnancy, begin to alter your body.
As a result of the increased blood flow, your breasts may feel sensitive and seem larger. Your nipples could ache, and you might notice that your skin’s veins appear darker.
This symptom isn’t usually a sign of pregnancy because many women also feel breast soreness in the days preceding their menstruation.
You’re feeling different
In the early stages of pregnancy, you may experience:
- nausea
- food aversions
- exhaustion
- frequent urination
These symptoms might worsen over the next weeks before your HCG levels stabilize late in the first trimester. Pay attention to your body since you are the expert on you. You should consider taking a pregnancy test if you have any unexpected physical symptoms.
Your contraception failed
Condoms, birth control pills, and other forms of contraception do not completely prevent conception. In other words, no matter how careful you are, there is always a small possibility of becoming pregnant.
If you encounter any of the symptoms we’ve outlined, regardless of your options for birth control, think about being tested.
Unplanned pregnancy can also be caused by human mistake or flaws. It might be challenging to remember to take birth control tablets every day. Nine out of every 100 women using the pill will become pregnant if they don’t take it as prescribed, said Planned Parenthood.
Condoms are prone to tearing, breaking, and other improper uses. Nearly 18 out of every 100 women who use condoms for contraception become pregnant each year, according to Planned Parenthood.
Consult your doctor about other contraceptive options, such as an intrauterine device, if you’re concerned about contraceptive failure (IUD).
Less than one in every 100 women who use an IUD become pregnant each year, according Planned Parenthood.
Pregnancy Symptoms: 10 Early Signs That You May Be Pregnant
When in doubt, test!
Even while utilizing protection, sexually active women in their reproductive years have a monthly risk of becoming pregnant. You might consider taking a pregnancy test if your body sends you specific indications.
Take the test as soon as you suspect your period has missed it for the best results. To boost the concentration of the HCG hormone that the test monitors, hold the test for many hours or do it during your first morning toilet visit.
Early testing ensures that you receive appropriate treatment for yourself and, if necessary, prenatal care for your child. If the test is successful, get in touch with your doctor right away to go over your options and probable course of action.