Think you might be pregnant? A pregnancy test is the best way to confirm your suspicions instead of relying on symptoms like nausea or a missed period.
A urine-based pregnancy test can be purchased at a drugstore and produce almost immediate results. A blood test is more expensive and accessible only through a lab, but it can identify smaller amounts of hCG and may detect pregnancy sooner than a urine test.
Life Choices Medical offers no-charge, lab-quality, urine-based pregnancy tests.
Blood vs. Urine Pregnancy Tests
Urine Tests
Urine tests are the most accessible and the least expensive type of pregnancy test. They include a reactive strip designed to detect the presence of hCG, the pregnancy hormone.
If this is confirmed, it will result in a positive pregnancy test. Pregnancy tests usually boast up to 99% accuracy.
Blood Tests
An at-home urine pregnancy test can provide immediate results, but a blood test ordered by your doctor can detect pregnancy even earlier.
During a blood test appointment, a sample is drawn and then analyzed in a lab for precise hormone level readings. This test is more sensitive than an over-the-counter test.
When Should I Take a Pregnancy Test?
It’s best to wait until after your missed period to test for pregnancy. Some people recommend waiting at least a week to ensure accurate results.
If you have an irregular period or are unsure of timing, wait 21 days after you’ve had sex to take the test.
Our center offers convenient, no-charge pregnancy tests with immediate results. If you are still determining the best timing, we can also help you determine the optimal timing based on your last menstrual period.
Confirming Your Pregnancy
Even if you get a positive pregnancy test, as many as 26% of known pregnancies end in natural miscarriage.
You can still receive a positive pregnancy test after a miscarriage occurs. This is because hCG levels take some time to decrease depending on how far along you were.
Scheduling a no-charge ultrasound at our center is an excellent way to confirm the pregnancy’s gestational age as well as confirm whether or not pregnancy is viable.
You can verify essential pregnancy details and discuss your options in a supportive environment. Contact us today!