Pregnancy tests—when and how to use them
Pregnancy is usually happy event but discovering an unplanned pregnancy can be a shock! Symptoms such as nausea, fatigue, and increased appetite are early indicators of pregnancy, but a home pregnancy test can also provide clarity.
Pregnancy tests are widely available and very simple to use. They test for the presence of the hormone hCG, which a woman’s body produces only when a fertilized ovum has nestled in the wall of her uterus and the embryo has started to develop. A few drops of urine will tell you what you need to know.
Although they all use the same principle, pregnancy test design can vary. Be sure to read the instructions and check the expiry date before you begin!
Over-the-counter urine-based pregnancy tests are not 100% reliable. To be absolutely sure, consult your doctor for a blood test for an answer to the question: Am I pregnant?
If the test result is positive, but your pregnancy is unplanned, a health care specialist can help you make a decision about what to do next.
When is the right time to take a pregnancy test? How does it work? How can I be sure to get an accurate result? To learn more about this topic, read an article in English here.
