How does a home pregnancy test work?

A home pregnancy test measures the presence of the hormone Human Chorionic Gonadotrophin (H.C.G.) in your urine. H.C.G. is produced in the placenta shortly after the embryo attaches to the uterine lining. This hormone then builds up rapidly in your body in the first few days following implantation. Usually H.C.G. can be detected by a home pregnancy test 7-10 days after conception. The further in to the pregnancy you are the higher the levels of H.C.G. in your urine.

How accurate are these tests?

These tests have proved greater than 99% accurate in laboratory and consumer studies.

When should I do the test?

The tests can be taken at any time of the day. However, we do recommend that you test first thing in the morning when your urine is most concentrated. Do not drink large amounts of fluid in an attempt to increase the volume of urine as this may dilute the urine making H.C.G. more difficult to detect.

What does the test result look like?

 

Not Pregnant                                        Pregnant

How long will it take before I can read the result?

You can read the results after just 3 minutes.

What is the difference between home tests and those done by a doctor?

Many doctors and clinics use home pregnancy tests to verify the results, in which case they are exactly the same. Occasionally, some women may be given a blood test, but they aren’t very different from home pregnancy tests either. Both types look for the presence of H.C.G. in your body.

What should I do with my results?

If your pregnancy test results are positive, you should consult your doctor to discuss your pregnancy and what steps and precautions should be taken next. In addition, if your test is negative and you still suspect you may be pregnant, you may want to confirm your test results with another home pregnancy test a few days later. If you test too early you may get a negative result because not enough of the H.C.G. hormone has built up in your system.

If I see 2 lines but one is fainter than the other is this a positive result?

Yes, if 2 lines appear you are pregnant no matter how faint the lines appear.

Can anything affect the results of these tests?

Drinking alcohol, painkillers, oral contraceptives, antibiotics and other common drugs will not affect the result of these tests. Only medicines that contain H.C.G. can produce a false positive result. If you are unsure about your result or your period has still not arrived then you should see your doctor for advice.