If you think you might be pregnant, taking a pregnancy test is the first step toward finding out. It’s natural to feel anxious or uncertain, but understanding how pregnancy tests work can help you feel more confident in the process.
Here’s what you need to know about urine and blood pregnancy tests, when to take them for the most accurate results, and why following up with an ultrasound is essential.
How Do Pregnancy Tests Work?
Pregnancy tests detect human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG), a hormone that the body produces after a fertilized egg implants in the uterus. The amount of hCG increases rapidly in early pregnancy, making it a reliable marker for pregnancy detection.
Types of Pregnancy Tests
Urine Pregnancy Tests
Urine pregnancy tests (which are what you’ll find in the drugstore) detect hCG in urine and provide quick results, typically within a few minutes.
For the most accurate results, it’s best to take the test first thing in the morning, when hCG levels are most concentrated.
Blood Pregnancy Tests
Blood tests are performed at a medical facility and detect hCG with even greater accuracy.
There are two types:
- Qualitative blood tests confirm whether hCG is present.
- Quantitative blood tests measure the exact levels of hCG to determine how far along you might be.
Blood tests can detect pregnancy earlier than urine tests—as soon as 6-8 days after ovulation. However, these aren’t as common as urine pregnancy tests.
When to Take a Pregnancy Test for Accuracy
For the most reliable result for at-home urine tests, it’s best to wait until the first day of your missed period. In fact, taking the test too early may result in a false negative because hCG levels might not be high enough to detect.
However, if you don’t know when to expect your period, it’s recommended to wait at least 21 days after intercourse, and if your result is negative but you still think you might be pregnant, test again in one week.
Why an Ultrasound Is Essential
A positive pregnancy test is just the first step. An ultrasound is a necessary next step to confirm key details, such as:
- How far along you are
- If the pregnancy is viable (detecting a heartbeat)
- If the pregnancy is ectopic, which requires urgent medical attention
Alabama Pregnancy Test Center Is Here for You
At Alabama Pregnancy Test Center, we provide free pregnancy testing and follow-up ultrasounds to give you the clarity you need before making any decisions.
You’re not alone—contact us today to schedule your free appointment and get the answers you need.