Wondering about an unexpected pregnancy can bring about a wave of emotions and uncertainty. If you’re asking yourself, “Should I take a pregnancy test?” you’re not alone. Understanding the right timing for a test is one of the first steps in finding clarity.
Most at-home pregnancy tests claim to be 99% accurate if taken on the first day of your missed period. However, various factors can influence the results. Let’s explore the early signs of pregnancy and how pregnancy tests work.
Signs of Pregnancy
A missed period is often the most noticeable early sign of pregnancy, especially if your menstrual cycle is regular. For those with irregular cycles, this may be less reliable.
Other common early signs of pregnancy include tender or swollen breasts caused by hormonal changes, which typically ease after a few weeks. Nausea, often called morning sickness, can begin a month or two after conception and isn’t limited to the morning. You may also experience increased urination as your body adjusts to the pregnancy and fatigue as your body works to support the changes.
It’s important to note that not everyone experiences these symptoms; some women may have no symptoms. Additionally, these signs could be related to other health conditions, so they are not definitive proof of pregnancy.
Fortunately, you don’t have to rely on these ambiguous signs to get answers.
When Should I Take a Test?
Pregnancy tests detect a hormone called human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG), which your body produces after conception. This hormone is present in your urine or blood, depending on the type of test. The most common tests found at pharmacies use urine to detect hCG.
Timing plays a crucial role in obtaining accurate results. After conception, hCG levels start low and rise rapidly, but testing too early can result in a false negative if levels are not yet high enough to be detected.
For the most accurate results, it’s recommended to wait until the first day of your missed period before taking a test. Also, testing it in the morning is best, as hCG concentration levels are the highest.Â
What to Do After a Positive Test
If your at-home test result is positive, verifying your pregnancy with medical-grade pregnancy testing and ultrasound is the next step. At A Hope Center, we provide no-cost pregnancy testing and limited obstetrical ultrasounds to give you the answers you need.
Our compassionate team is here to provide the information and support you deserve in a confidential and welcoming environment.
Contact us today to schedule your no-cost and confidential appointment so you can take your next steps with confidence.
*A Hope Center does not provide or refer for abortions.