You might wonder if home pregnancy tests provide accurate results. Regardless of how you feel about being pregnant, there are a few things you should know about home pregnancy tests.
How Do Pregnancy Tests Work?
About 10 days after conception (when a sperm fertilizes an egg), the embryo implants into a woman’s uterus. Her body then releases the hormone human chorionic gonadotropin (HCG) to sustain the pregnancy.[1] Home pregnancy tests detect the presence of HCG in the urine.
When is the Best Time to Take a Pregnancy Test?
Although the body produces HCG at implantation (10 days after conception), HCG may not be detectable in the urine until about 14 days after conception. So, most home pregnancy tests recommend testing after the first day of a missed period. If used before a missed period, the test could be negative even though a woman is early in her pregnancy.[2]
If you experience irregular periods, it can be difficult to know when you have a missed period. If you think you may be pregnant, take a pregnancy test two weeks after having sex or if you develop pregnancy symptoms.
How Accurate are Pregnancy Tests?
Every home pregnancy test works differently, so be sure to carefully read and follow the instructions that come with the test. Always check the test’s expiration date to avoid false results. When used correctly, home pregnancy tests can be up to 99% accurate.[3] If taken too early or used improperly the test could give a negative result.
If you’ve missed your period and taken pregnancy tests that gave you both positive and negative results, speak to your healthcare provider or call Mid Cities Women's Clinic to speak to one of our licensed medical professionals.
Can a Positive Pregnancy Test Result After a Miscarriage?
After a miscarriage, positive pregnancy tests can occur on average for two to four weeks as the HCG levels continue to decrease. If you’ve experienced a miscarriage, you should speak with your healthcare provider about next steps.[4]
How Soon Can You Have an Abortion After a Positive Pregnancy Test?
Although a positive pregnancy test detects HCG in your urine, the results do not tell you how far along you are in your pregnancy or whether the pregnancy is viable. The most reliable way to confirm a viable pregnancy is to receive an ultrasound.
Call us at 817-577-4387 to see if you qualify for a free ultrasound.
What’s the Difference Between PMS and Pregnancy Symptoms?
Some pregnancy symptoms may feel and look like premenstrual symptoms (PMS), such as breast tenderness, fatigue, moodiness, or spotting. However, additional symptoms such as nausea, headaches, frequent urination, and weight changes, are often present in pregnancy but not before a period. If you’re experiencing any of these symptoms, take a home pregnancy test or visit your doctor.[5]
Some women find that digital tests are easier to read.[6] Regardless of the type used, carefully read the instructions. If you prefer going to a clinic to confirm pregnancy, you can schedule a free pregnancy test at Mid Cities Women's Clinic.
Give us a call at 817-577-4387 to get started.
Do You Need a Blood Pregnancy Test?
In a clinical setting, blood tests detect the presence and the amount of HCG in blood. Healthcare providers use blood tests to verify pregnancy, to estimate the gestational age, and to monitor the progression of pregnancy. However, urine pregnancy tests suffice for most women.[7]
What Do You Do After a Positive Pregnancy Test?
The first few moments after a positive pregnancy test can be scary. Women can feel angry, sad, nervous, happy, or simply numb. Whatever the results of your pregnancy test may be, we will provide the information you need to make the best decision for your health and future.
Give us a call at 817-577-4387 or schedule an appointment online. All services are confidential and free of charge.
Please be aware that Mid Cities Women's Clinic does not provide or refer for abortion services.
Sources
- Cleveland Clinic. (2022, November 28). Pregnancy Tests. https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diagnostics/9703-pregnancy-tests
- Mayo Clinic. (2022, December 23). Home pregnancy tests: Can you trust the results? https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/getting-pregnant/in-depth/home-pregnancy-tests/art-20047940
- Tomlinson, C., Marshall, J., & Ellis, J. E. (2008). Comparison of accuracy and certainty of results of six home pregnancy tests available over-the-counter. Current medical research and opinion, 24(6), 1645–1649. https://doi.org/10.1185/03007990802120572
- Mayo Clinic. (2023, September 8). Miscarriage. https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/pregnancy-loss-miscarriage/symptoms-causes/syc-20354298
- John D. Jacobson. (2022, November 10). Pregnancy Test. Medline Plus. https://medlineplus.gov/ency/article/003432.htm
- Johnson, S., Cushion, M., Bond, S., Godbert, S. & Pike, J. (2015). Comparison of analytical sensitivity and women’s interpretation of home pregnancy tests. Clinical Chemistry and Laboratory Medicine (CCLM), 53(3), 391-402. https://doi.org/10.1515/cclm-2014-0643
- FDA. (2019, April 29). Pregnancy. https://www.fda.gov/medical-devices/home-use-tests/pregnancy