Even though individual brands may have slight variations, all tests work by detecting the pregnancy hormone ß-hCG (aka hCG) in your urine.
How Do I Read a Pregnancy Test?
The display on the pregnancy test stick will vary, depending on the brand. Most tests indicate the result through lines:
- One line means you are pregnant.
- No line means you are not pregnant.
Sometimes pregnancy tests have a control window beside the test window:
- A line in the control window indicates that the test is working correctly. If only the control line is visible, this means: the test worked — not pregnant.
- If two lines are visible, one in each window, this means: the test worked — pregnant.
- The test is defective or performed incorrectly if no line appears in the control window. The display in the result window is, therefore, irrelevant.
Words may appear on digital tests, such as 'not pregnant.'
To determine the meaning of each marker in your particular test, read the package insert. Some pregnancy tests indicate the approximate week of pregnancy. This result is based on the concentration of the pregnancy hormone ß-hCG, which increases weekly.
How Reliable Is the Result?
A reliable result is only achievable if the test is working correctly and implantation of the fertilised egg has already occurred, i.e., about five to six days after fertilisation. Only then does the level of pregnancy hormone ß-hCG rise and become detectible.
Taking a pregnancy test too soon may falsify the result.
When Is the Best Time to Take a Pregnancy Test?
a) How Soon Can a Pregnancy Be Detected?
Even though the production of pregnancy hormones begins with implantation, the amount is often too small to detect in the early days of pregnancy. Most pregnancy tests provide a reliable result after the first day of your missed period. If your period is already late, you can take a test now.
For a more reliable result, wait at least 14 days after the sexual intercourse in question since your period may be delayed for other reasons.
b) What Is the Earliest Test Possible?
Early-result pregnancy tests are made for women who want to know as soon as possible. They work just like all the other urine tests but are more sensitive, reacting to minute amounts of pregnancy hormones in the urine.
Many early pregnancy tests already respond a few days before one’s period is due. For more details, please refer to the package insert, or go to:
- How Soon Can You Take a Pregnancy Test?
c) What Is the Best Time of Day to Take the Test?
For best results, take the pregnancy test first thing in the morning when the concentration of ß-hCG in the urine is highest. Of course, this does not apply to women who work night shifts. Test after a prolonged period of sleep.
Where Can I Get a Pregnancy Test?
Every pharmacy, as well as many corner stores, carry home pregnancy tests. Your doctor can also supply you with a test but may want to administer it in the office.
You can order one online if you want to avoid being recognised as you purchase a pregnancy test.
Blood vs. Urine Pregnancy Tests
In cases of uncertainty, your physician may order a blood test. Like in the urine test, the presence of the pregnancy hormone ß-hCG is determined. ß-hCG levels in the blood increase earlier than in the urine, making an accurate result possible only nine days post-fertilisation.
If you are unsure whether your home pregnancy test result was accurate, or if you are feeling anxious because you suspect a pregnancy, ask your doctor whether a blood test might be right for you.
