FACT: Understanding how pregnancy tests work can help you know when to test, how to get the most accurate results, and what to do if you get a positive result.
1. What Makes a Pregnancy Test Positive?
Pregnancy tests detect human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG), a hormone your body makes rapidly after implantation of a fertilized egg. If enough of the hormone is present, the test will display a positive result.
Because hCG takes time to build up in your body, taking a pregnancy test too early may result in a false negative, even if you are pregnant.
2. How Do I Make Sure My Test is Accurate?
To improve accuracy, consider these tips:
- Wait at least one week after a missed period.
- Follow the instructions that come with your pregnancy test carefully.
- Ensure that the test has not expired.
- If your test is negative but your period still doesn’t begin after a few days, take another test or schedule an appointment with Blue Ridge Women’s Center.
3. My Pregnancy Test Was Positive, What’s Next?
If your test is positive, an ultrasound is an important next step. Blue Ridge Women’s Center provides this service at no cost in a safe, confidential environment.
An ultrasound is important to determine:
- Whether the pregnancy is located inside the uterus.
- Whether the pregnancy is viable, since 1 in 4 pregnancies end in miscarriage.
- Approximately how far along the pregnancy is.
This information protects your health and supports your understanding of the pregnancy. For example, an ultrasound can identify an ectopic pregnancy, which requires immediate medical attention.
Whether you’re considering parenting, adoption, or abortion, having this information allows you to make an informed decision based on medical facts.
Find Answers at Blue Ridge Women’s Center
If you think you might be pregnant, Blue Ridge Women’s Center is here to help.
We offer no-cost pregnancy testing and limited ultrasounds in a caring, judgment-free environment. Our compassionate team is here to answer your questions, explain your options, and help you take your next step with confidence.
Contact Blue Ridge Women’s Center today to schedule your confidential appointment. You’re not alone in this. We’re here for you.