Are you experiencing strange physical symptoms and wondering if you might be pregnant? While early pregnancy can cause common symptoms in many women, the only reliable way to know if you’re pregnant is through pregnancy testing and a follow-up ultrasound.
While most at-home urine pregnancy tests claim to be 99% accurate if taken on the first day of your missed menstrual period, blood pregnancy tests can be taken sooner.
Read on to learn how a pregnancy test works, when to take one, and how to protect your health. Or, if you’re looking for free pregnancy testing, contact The Hope Clinic today to connect with one of our caring team members. All appointments and resources are free of charge and confidential.
How Does Pregnancy Testing Work?
When pregnant, human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) is present in your body. Pregnancy testing works by detecting hCG in your body (either through a blood or urine sample).
Blood Pregnancy Testing
Blood pregnancy testing looks at your blood to detect hCG, but it can also measure hCG levels. This can be important, as lower levels of hCG can be an indicator that you’re at risk for a miscarriage.
Blood pregnancy testing is more sensitive than urine pregnancy testing. It can reveal a pregnancy earlier than through urine, but it’s also more invasive as it must be done in a healthcare setting.
Urine Pregnancy Testing
Urine pregnancy testing detects hCG through a urine sample, but it can’t detect actual levels. It’s the most convenient option, as you can purchase a urine pregnancy test from most drugstores.
The downside of urine pregnancy testing is its capacity to present a false negative result if you take it too early.
Next Steps
Facing an unplanned pregnancy can be overwhelming, but taking a pregnancy test is the first step toward gaining clarity. At The Hope Clinic, we care about your health and well-being, which is why we offer free pregnancy testing and follow-up ultrasounds free of charge. Contact us today to schedule your confidential appointment.