When a woman suspects that she might be pregnant, the first thing she does is go to a nearby pharmacy and buys a pregnancy test. These tests can detect pregnancy hormones in a woman’s urine and confirm pregnancy.

Here’s everything you need to know about pregnancy tests and how they work.

What are Pregnancy Tests?

Pregnancy tests are designed to detect the presence of Human Chorionic Gonadotropin (hCG) hormone, which is produced by the placenta after fertilization.

These tests are available as a urine test or a blood test and they are designed to detect hCG levels in a woman’s body.

Types of Pregnancy Tests

There are different types of pregnancy tests available in the market. Some of the most common ones include:.

: Urine Test

This is the most common type of pregnancy test and is available over the counter. It involves collecting a urine sample in a cup and dipping the test stick in it. The stick changes color if hCG hormones are present in the urine.

These tests are about 99% accurate if taken on or after the first day of a missed period.

: Blood Test

A blood test can detect pregnancy much earlier than a urine test. There are two types of blood tests, a qualitative and a quantitative test.

Qualitative tests detect if hCG hormone is present or not while quantitative tests measure the exact levels of hCG in the bloodstream. These tests are more accurate but are more expensive and require a visit to a doctor.

: Saliva Test

This test involves placing saliva on a slide and examining it under a microscope. If there is a fern-like pattern, it indicates pregnancy. However, saliva tests are not always accurate and are not recommended to confirm pregnancy.

When to take a Pregnancy Test?

The best time to take a pregnancy test is after a missed period. Hormone levels are high enough at this time, which ensures accurate results.

However, some women may experience early pregnancy symptoms, such as fatigue, nausea, and mild cramping within a few days to a week. In these cases, it is possible to take a pregnancy test before a missed period.

How to take a Pregnancy Test?

Before taking a urine test, make sure to read the instructions provided on the packaging and follow them carefully. Here are a few general instructions to keep in mind:.

Collect urine in a clean container.
Dip the test stick in the urine or use a dropper to put a few drops on it.
Wait for the results to appear (usually takes a few minutes).
Read the results within the time frame mentioned in the instructions.

Interpreting the Results

After taking the test, read the instructions to interpret the results correctly. Different brands may have different readings, but in general:.

If a positive result shows up, there is a 99% chance of being pregnant.
If the result is negative, there is no hCG hormone detected, and pregnancy is unlikely. However, it is recommended to retest again after a few days.

Conclusion

Pregnancy tests are easy to use, reliable, and affordable. They can provide immediate results and confirm pregnancy even before a missed period. However, it is essential to follow the instructions and interpret the results carefully.

If you have any doubts or questions, it is always recommended to consult a doctor.