Are you experiencing pregnancy signs and symptoms, like missing your period? If you recently had unprotected sex or your routine birth control method failed, you might be pregnant. While tracking symptoms can give you a hint that you’re pregnant, taking a pregnancy test is the only reliable way to confirm a pregnancy (and if the result is positive, getting an ultrasound is the next step).

However, it’s essential to understand how pregnancy tests work and when to take one for the most accurate results.

How Does a Pregnancy Test Work?

When you’re pregnant, your body’s hormone levels increase, and you will produce new hormones to prepare your body for pregnancy. One of these hormones is human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG).

Pregnancy tests work by detecting hCG in your blood or urine. At-home pregnancy tests utilize urine, and these are the most common type of pregnancy test. Blood pregnancy tests are typically reserved if you need to have your hCG levels measured, like if you’re at risk for miscarriage.

When Should I Take a Pregnancy Test?

Most at-home pregnancy tests claim to be 99% accurate if taken on the first day of your missed period.

However, knowing when to expect your period can be difficult if it is usually late or irregular. If this is the case, take your pregnancy test three or four weeks after sex. If you know the timing of your last period, you can also take a pregnancy test four weeks after the first day of your last period.

If you receive a negative result and still don’t have your period, wait a little longer (about a week) and take another test. If your period still doesn’t return,  consult with a healthcare provider about potential causes.

It’s also recommended to take a pregnancy test first thing in the morning when your urine is most concentrated.

What If I Get a Positive Result?

If your pregnancy test is positive, following up with an ultrasound is vital. This simple scan will give you the information you need to stay safe.

At Pregnancy and Family Life Center, we offer free pregnancy testing and follow-up ultrasounds if you receive a positive result. A healthcare professional will explain the results of your pregnancy test, answer your questions, and provide you with information on your options.

We understand that this can be a scary time. Facing a potential pregnancy when you weren’t expecting it can make it feel like the world has stopped, but you’re not alone in this. We’re here for you.

Contact us today to schedule a free, confidential appointment.