A Complete Guide To Pregnancy Tests: When, How & What To Expect

Is the pregnancy test just a quick pee on a stick?

When it comes to a pregnancy test, there are so many things that play an important role. Everything from timing to hormones to the type of test can make all the difference. So let's get into everything you need to know about pregnancy tests in this blog - the timing, procedure, and results.

Pregnancy Test: What Two Positive Lines Mean

A pregnancy test uses a diagnostic tool that indicates the presence of human chorionic gonadotropin, or hCG hormone, in your urine or blood. Your body begins producing this hormone the moment an egg becomes fertilised and attaches itself to your uterus after conception. Therefore, an increase in the amount of hCG produced in your bloodstream or urine serves as the most definite sign of pregnancy. ¹

But do you know when is the ideal time to take this pregnancy test? Let's find out.

What Time Should I Take A Pregnancy Test

If one has to conduct a test within the shortest time possible, it is best to do it after a missed period and use a first morning urine sample. After this duration, the pregnancy hormone, hCG, should have reached identifiable levels in your urine or blood. Testing early might provide a false negative, so wait till you have missed your periods to test for an accurate result.  ¹

How Do Pregnancy Tests Work

When selecting a pregnancy test, you can choose between digital tests and strip tests. Digital tests can detect hormone levels with a special sensor; they display results in plain words, for example: "Pregnant" or "Not Pregnant." They are easy to read but relatively expensive. On the other hand, the strip test is less expensive. However, you have to interpret what the coloured lines on the test strip mean. The marker lines on the test strip turn coloured in response to the presence of pregnancy hormones. Thus, reading these lines in the right way is a crucial step to get the correct results. Both tests are dependable, so you may rely on either one based on your personal preference and choice. ²

However, if you're not sure which test to pick, keep reading the article to learn more.

Are All Pregnancy Test Kit Results the Same?

Not all pregnancy tests work the same way! While they all detect the hormone hCG, the timing, method, and accuracy of the pregnancy test kit results can vary. Here are some key types:

Pregnancy Blood Test/Digital Test

If you want to be super accurate and get the inside info fast, clinic-based blood tests are your best bet. The pregnancy blood test can beat out the urine tests and can detect the hCG hormone just 6 to 8 days after ovulation. They're further classified as: ^{1 3}

1. Quantitative Blood Test: 

This test measures the exact amount of hCG that exists in your bloodstream and, therefore, is quite accurate. ³

2. Qualitative Blood Test: 

This blood test basically detects the presence of hCG in your blood and gives a flat yes or no result. ⁴

Urine Pregnancy Test

Doctors often proclaim that a urine test is totally convenient and very easy to use. What’s even better is, while taking a test if you follow the instructions, these tests are 99% accurate. Besides, they’re private and will give you quick results within minutes. Also for more accuracy always use your first urine sample in the morning for an at-home test. ¹

When To Take A Home Pregnancy Test?

If you suspect you are pregnant, get a test done. The sensitivity varies among different home pregnancy tests. Some of them can determine pregnancy even as early as ten days after conception. Remember, you may get false negative results if you take the test too soon after pregnancy. That is why it is always recommended to wait until your missed period to ensure a positive result. ¹

However, if you receive a negative pregnancy test and don’t get your period as expected, you can reconsider taking one.

But then, what if you find the results confusing?

Don’t worry! Occasionally, a test may display an evaporation line, which could be misinterpreted as a positive result if the reading is conducted after the suggested time frame. Nevertheless, if there is any uncertainty regarding the results, don’t worry. One may take another test or consult with a gynaecologist to get a clear picture of your pregnancy. ¹

How To Do A Pregnancy Test At Home

The step is straightforward: ⁵

1. Begin by carefully reading the instructions. All tests are different, so it is important to know each one specifically.
2. Most will ask you to put the sample on the stick, either directly or by dipping it into a clean cup.
3. Always use your first-morning urine sample (the best is after the day of your missed period). That's actually when your hormone levels are at their highest!
4. Let a duration of around three to five minutes pass.
5. Finally check the indicator lines based on the instructions:

• Two lines usually show a positive test, which means you are pregnant.
• One line usually means a negative test, which means you are not pregnant.
• If one line is dark and the other is light, it indicates an invalid result as there is not enough HCG in the urine. In this situation, it is advisable to retake the test the following day.

Some tests include extra lines or symbols, so be sure you understand what the results chart specifies about your test.

Note: Always remember to keep your water intake normal before the test so as not to dilute the results. 

A Few Parting Words

Taking a pregnancy test can be somewhat of a hassle, but we sincerely hope that the tips provided here will help simplify the process for you. If you're trying to conceive and haven't yet confirmed with blood or urine tests, don't lose hope; there is still time to try for your next chance. 

And if you've just discovered that you're pregnant, congratulations! We're sending you all the good vibes for the journey ahead. No matter where you're in this process, just remember you're doing awesome and you've totally got this!

FAQs

Q1. How Reliable Are Pregnancy Tests?

Pregnancy tests are quite reliable when used correctly. Most home pregnancy tests claim to be 97% to 99% accurate when taken after your missed period and as long as you follow the instructions correctly. ¹

Q2. How Common Are False Results On Pregnancy Tests?

False pregnancy test kit results are rare, but some causes include testing too early, using diluted urine, or as a side effect from certain medications or medical conditions. ¹

Q3. Are There Any Medications That Would Interfere With Pregnancy Test Results? 

Yes, some meds can interfere with pregnancy test results, especially those containing hCG (human chorionic gonadotropin) itself because that is what tests are designed to detect. ⁶