How Does a Pregnancy Test Work?
Knowing how exactly a pregnancy test works can seem confusing initially, but gathering information can help you feel more informed and confident about your next steps. What’s more, understanding the ins and outs of taking a test can provide clarity and reassurance if you suspect you’re pregnant.
Options for Her provides no-cost pregnancy testing to ensure an accurate initial result. We also offer resources to inform you about your pregnancy and health.
Schedule an appointment today to get started. In the meantime, continue reading to learn more about how pregnancy tests work.
How Tests Detect a Pregnancy
All pregnancy tests, whether they’re blood or urine-based, work by detecting hCG (human chorionic gonadotropin). This hormone is present in the body during pregnancy, and its levels rise rapidly during the initial weeks.
Home pregnancy tests are urine-based. You’ll follow the testing kit’s instructions and receive the results within minutes. These tests are relatively inexpensive and readily available at grocery stores and pharmacies.
Blood-based pregnancy tests are performed at your doctor’s office or the hospital. These tests are much more sensitive and can detect hCG in your body earlier. However, they are more expensive if not covered by insurance, and doctors may prescribe them if they want to measure your hCG levels over time.
Timing Matters
If you’re considering taking a pregnancy test, the timing will be critical in receiving an accurate result. The Mayo Clinic recommends testing a day or two after your missed period to allow hCG levels to increase to detectable levels.
Testing first thing in the morning, when your urine is most concentrated, can also improve the test’s accuracy. Speaking with your medical provider can offer clarity if you’re unsure when to take a test based on your symptoms or health history.
Here to Provide Answers
Whether you’ve just received a positive test or are experiencing common pregnancy symptoms, we’ll help you get answers you can trust.
Options for Her can help with no-cost pregnancy testing. If you receive a positive result at the center, we can offer an ultrasound to confirm your pregnancy and determine your next steps.
Schedule an appointment today to get started. We’re here to help.
Pregnancy Testing
If you suspect you may be pregnant, you should speak with a trusted medical provider or pregnancy clinic. By discussing the best time to test and confirming your results with a quality pregnancy test and ultrasound, you can be sure of the results and begin planning your next step.
Ultrasound
Ultrasounds use high-frequency sound waves to receive information that can be seen as an image on a screen. Determine what choices you have with an ultrasound. An ultrasound will alert you of any possible complications. It is an important step of the pregnancy confirmation process, as it confirms three different aspects of your pregnancy.
Mobile Unit
We offer pregnancy confirmation services at our Mobile Unit! Here is more about our pregnancy services, provided at no cost to you and completely confidential. If for some reason you can't come to us, we can come to you with our mobile unit.
Pregnancy Testing
If you suspect you may be pregnant, you should speak with a trusted medical provider or pregnancy clinic. By discussing the best time to test and confirming your results with a quality pregnancy test and ultrasound, you can be sure of the results and begin planning your next step.
Ultrasound
Ultrasounds use high-frequency sound waves to receive information that can be seen as an image on a screen. Determine what choices you have with an ultrasound. An ultrasound will alert you of any possible complications. It is an important step of the pregnancy confirmation process, as it confirms three different aspects of your pregnancy.
Mobile Unit
We offer pregnancy confirmation services at our Mobile Unit! Here is more about our pregnancy services, provided at no cost to you and completely confidential. If for some reason you can't come to us, we can come to you with our mobile unit.
