Waiting for the result of a pregnancy test can feel like one of the longest moments of your life.
Whether you’re hoping for a positive result, praying for a negative one, or simply unsure what you want to see, it’s normal to feel anxious. You may be wondering whether the test is accurate, whether you’ve taken it too early, or what you should do if the result is positive.
Understanding how pregnancy tests work can help answer some of those questions and give you a better idea of your next steps.
Read on to learn more, or contact Pregnancy Resources of Delaware County to find free pregnancy testing and a safe space to ask questions.
What Does a Pregnancy Test Detect?
Pregnancy tests are designed to detect a hormone called human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG).
After a fertilized egg implants in the lining of the uterus, your body begins producing hCG. As the pregnancy continues to develop, the amount of this hormone increases rapidly during the first several weeks.
When you take a home pregnancy test, it checks your urine for the presence of hCG. If the hormone is detected above a certain level, the test will show a positive result.
Because hCG levels rise over time, the timing of the test matters. Testing too early may mean there isn’t enough of the hormone in your urine for the test to detect, even if you are pregnant.
Can a Pregnancy Test Ever Be Wrong?
Home pregnancy tests are generally very accurate when they’re used correctly, but they aren’t perfect.
A false negative is more common than a false positive and often happens when a woman tests before her body has produced enough hCG. If your test is negative but your period still hasn’t started, waiting a few days and testing again may provide a more accurate result.
False positives are much less common but can happen in certain situations, such as after a recent pregnancy loss, a recent abortion, or when certain fertility drugs that contain hCG are being used.
If you’re unsure whether your result is accurate, follow-up testing can provide additional answers and peace of mind.
What Should I Do If My Pregnancy Test Is Positive?
A positive pregnancy test is an important first step, but it doesn’t tell you everything you need to know about your pregnancy.
For example, a pregnancy test cannot tell you:
- How far along are you
- Whether the pregnancy is located in the uterus
- Whether the pregnancy is viable
That’s why an ultrasound is often the next important step.
An ultrasound can confirm important details about your pregnancy and provide information that may be especially important if you’re considering your pregnancy options. It can also identify certain medical concerns, such as an ectopic pregnancy, that require prompt medical attention.
Before making any decisions about your pregnancy, it’s important to understand exactly what’s happening medically.
You Don’t Have to Figure Out Your Next Steps Alone
At Pregnancy Resources of Delaware County, we’re here to help you find answers in a caring, confidential environment.
We offer free pregnancy testing and can help you understand your results and the next steps. If your test is positive, our team can also discuss follow-up care, including an ultrasound, and provide information about all of your pregnancy options.
You don’t have to navigate an unexpected pregnancy on your own.
Contact Pregnancy Resources of Delaware County today to schedule your free, confidential appointment. We’re here to answer your questions, provide compassionate support, and help you move forward with confidence. You’re not alone in this.
