How Do Pregnancy Tests Work?

Knowing when to take a pregnancy test or how it works can be difficult. And if you’re worried you may be pregnant, the anxiety can feel unbearable. You likely have many things on your mind.

However, confirming a potential pregnancy is the first step toward making a decision. And understanding how tests detect a pregnancy can make you feel more reassured.

All blood and urine-based pregnancy tests detect hCG or human chorionic gonadotropin. HCG levels are only present in the body during pregnancy and rise rapidly during those initial weeks.

When Should I Take A Pregnancy Test?

It can be challenging to know when to take a pregnancy test. You may experience the following symptoms, though please know that they aren’t always indicative of pregnancy and can occur from other health conditions, stress, and more:

• Missed period
• Fatigue
• Frequent urination
• Tender, swollen breasts
• Moodiness
• Nasal congestion
• Constipation
• Cramping
• Food aversions
• Nausea (with or without vomiting)

Ultimately, you should take a pregnancy test several weeks after a missed period or a few days after sexual intercourse. This gives the hCG in your body time to build. Taking the test first thing in the morning is best, as this is when your urine is most concentrated.

What If My Pregnancy Test Comes Back Positive?

Upon seeing a positive pregnancy test, your first instinct may be to panic or question how this could have happened. But before making any decision, you should confirm your pregnancy.

Sanctity of Life Center provides medical-grade pregnancy testing to confirm a potential pregnancy. You may be eligible for a limited ultrasound if you have a positive result. You’ll receive the information needed to stay safe and progress in the decision-making process.

Contact us today to schedule a no-cost, confidential pregnancy testing appointment. We’ll help you get the answers you need.