Many symptoms can indicate early pregnancy, such as fatigue, nausea, increased urination, or, the most telling, a missed period. Still, there can be other causes for these symptoms, so you’ll want to start by taking a pregnancy test.
While it can be hard to wait, it’s recommended that you wait at least one week after a missed period to get the most accurate results for your pregnancy test.
If you take the test too early, you may get an inaccurate reading because your body is not yet producing enough levels of hCG, the pregnancy hormone that pregnancy tests are designed to detect.
How Do Pregnancy Tests Work?
The hormone hCG is detectable only after a certain number of days postfertilization. This hormone is produced by cells in the placenta. Typically, this hormone doubles every 72 hours, which is why it’s necessary to wait to take a test until your body has produced detectable levels.
The pregnancy tests consist of a reactive strip that will display a positive reading if there are detectable hCG levels in your urine.
It’s also advised that you take a test first thing in the morning when your urine is undiluted.
How Do I Know If My At-Home Test is Reliable?
While you can get blood tests at a clinic, at-home tests are the most convenient pregnancy tests. These at-home tests usually give reliable results, although there are always circumstances to be aware of that may produce a false reading. Some of these include:
- If you’ve experienced an early miscarriage (hCG is still detectable)
- The test is expired or defective
- The test has been taken too early in your menstrual cycle
- Certain medications can result in a false reading
At Life Choices Center, we offer no-cost, lab-quality pregnancy tests which can increase the likelihood of an accurate reading. Our staff can also help you calculate the best time to take a pregnancy test.
How Do I Get a Pregnancy Test?
If you don’t want to go to a doctor’s office for a blood pregnancy test, visit our center to receive a no-cost, lab-quality test.
In addition to pregnancy tests, Life Choices Center offers additional pregnancy services such as referrals for a no-cost, onsite ultrasound.
We provide a safe, confidential environment where you can receive evidence-based education, learn about your pregnancy options, and have an opportunity to ask questions or voice any concerns you may have.
Contact us today!