How Does a Pregnancy Test Work?
A pregnancy test looks for human chorionic gonadotropin, or hCG. The developing placenta begins producing this hormone after a fertilized egg implants in the uterine lining.
During early pregnancy, hCG levels rise quickly, often doubling every two to three days. Pregnancy Care Center’s self-administered urine tests provide a positive or negative result based on whether hCG has reached a detectable level.
When Should I Take a Pregnancy Test?
According to Mayo Clinic, home pregnancy tests are more likely to provide an accurate result after the first day of a missed period. Waiting another day or two gives hCG additional time to rise.
If your period is late, your usual cycle feels different, or a home test gave you an unclear result, it may be time to test. An advocate can help you think through your dates if you are unsure when your period should have started.
Can a Pregnancy Test Be Wrong?
Testing too early may produce a false-negative result. This means the test gives a negative result even though you are pregnant because the amount of hCG is still too low to detect.
A false negative may occur when:
- The test is taken too early
- The instructions are not followed correctly
- The urine is diluted by a large amount of fluid
- The result is read outside the instructed time
For the clearest result, use your first urine of the morning, when hCG is usually most concentrated. If the result is negative and your period remains absent, test again in a few days or one week.
What Happens During My Appointment?
Pregnancy Care Center provides no-cost, self-administered urine pregnancy tests. You will complete the test and receive your result during the visit.
An advocate will be available to listen, answer general questions, and discuss resources that may be helpful. You are also welcome to schedule an appointment after receiving an unclear or unexpected result from a home test.
What Does My Result Mean?
A positive result means hCG was detected. It confirms the presence of the pregnancy hormone, but it does not reveal:
- How far the pregnancy has progressed
- Whether the pregnancy is located inside the uterus
- Whether cardiac activity can be detected
An ultrasound performed by a qualified medical provider may offer this information. Your advocate can explain Pregnancy Care Center’s current ultrasound referral options.
Get an Initial Answer
If your period is late or a home test left you with questions, Pregnancy Care Center offers a confidential place to test and talk about what comes next at no cost.
