If you’re feeling anxious right now, that’s completely understandable. The uncertainty of not knowing whether you’re pregnant can be overwhelming. But if you think you might be pregnant, the best way to gain clarity is to take a pregnancy test. Knowing for sure can help you take the next steps with confidence and support.
At Alabama Pregnancy Test Center, we offer free, confidential pregnancy testing and follow-up ultrasounds to give you the clarity you need right now.
Contact us today to schedule your appointment—or keep reading to learn more about how pregnancy tests work and the best time to take a pregnancy test.
How Pregnancy Tests Works
Pregnancy tests work by detecting hCG (human chorionic gonadotropin), a hormone produced during pregnancy. Once a fertilized egg implants in the uterus, hCG levels begin to rise and can be detected in urine or blood.
- Home pregnancy tests: These tests detect hCG in your urine and are widely available at most drug and grocery stores. They are most accurate when taken after a missed period.
- Blood pregnancy tests: These tests detect hCG in your blood, and therefore must be performed in a healthcare setting. Blood pregnancy tests can tell you your hCG levels, which can be important if you’re at risk for miscarriage.
The Best Time to Take a Pregnancy Test
For the most reliable results, take a pregnancy test on the first day after your missed period or later. Testing too early may result in a false negative because hCG levels may not yet be high enough to detect pregnancy.
Here are a few tips for accurate testing:
- Use first-morning urine: HCG levels are most concentrated in the morning, improving test accuracy.
- Follow test instructions: Different tests may have slightly different guidelines, so it is essential to read and follow the instructions.
- Retest if necessary: If you receive a negative result but still don’t get your period, wait a few days and test again.
Alabama Pregnancy Test Center is Here for You
If you think you might be pregnant and want answers, Alabama Pregnancy Test Center is here to help. We offer free pregnancy testing in a confidential, supportive environment. If your test is positive, we also provide free follow-up ultrasounds to confirm your pregnancy and give you the vital information you need to take your next steps.
You don’t have to go through this alone. Contact Alabama Pregnancy Test Center today to schedule your free, confidential appointment.