Think there’s a chance you’re pregnant? Taking a pregnancy test is the first step toward finding out.  

Read on to learn more about how a pregnancy test works and the ideal time to take one.

How Does a Pregnancy Test Work? 

During pregnancy, the placenta produces human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG), a hormone that is only present in the body during pregnancy. HCG levels rise after conception (the moment when the sperm and egg meet) and tell the body to stop menstruating and start thickening the uterus lining (which is where the embryo attaches and develops).

Receiving a positive pregnancy test result indicates that the test has found detectable levels of hCG in your body.

However, it’s important to note that just because you received a negative result doesn’t mean you’re not pregnant; it could mean that you took the test too early for the hCG in your body to be detected by the test.

What’s the Best Time to Take a Pregnancy Test?

Most at-home pregnancy tests claim to be  99% accurate if you wait until the first day of your missed period.

However, if you don’t track your menstrual periods or know when you should expect it each month, it can be impossible to know when you’ve missed one. If this is the case, you’ll need to estimate when you think you’ll likely have your period and take the test. If it comes back negative but you still think you’re pregnant, test again in a week—if you are pregnant, this will give the hCG hormone time to rise to detectable levels in your body.

Taking the test in the morning is another critical factor, as your first-morning urine is the most concentrated. 

What If I Receive a Positive Result? 

If you’ve received a positive pregnancy test result, you’re likely feeling overwhelmed. Seeing those two lines can make it seem like the world has stopped. We understand, and we’re here for you.

At True Women’s Center, we offer no-cost pregnancy testing appointments. Our pregnancy tests are administered by our nurse, and the results are explained to you. If you receive another positive result, you will be offered a limited ultrasound. This simple scan will verify your pregnancy and provide the essential information you need to stay safe.

Contact us today to schedule your no-cost, confidential appointment.