The Home Pregnancy Test: A Convenient Option

When a woman suspects that she is pregnant, the first place she will often go to confirm her suspicions is the home pregnancy test. It is much more private and convenient to obtain these results at home before making an appointment with the doctor. These tests come in a variety of packages and price ranges, but nearly all home pregnancy tests work on the same principle.

The key to the home pregnancy test is the detection of a hormone called human chorionic gonadotropin – more commonly known as HCG. HCG will make an appearance in a woman's body at the time that an embryo implants into the uterine wall. This process generally occurs anywhere from six to twelve days after ovulation takes place. During the first few days and weeks of pregnancy, HCG levels will multiply in a woman's body at a rapid rate. The higher the levels of HCG in a woman's system, the easier it is for the home pregnancy test to detect the hormone in a woman's urine.

Because of the time frame involved before HCG becomes easy to read, it is usually recommended that a woman waits to take a home pregnancy test until the time that her menstrual period would normally be due. This will ensure the most accurate reading of the test.

Some home pregnancy tests are developed to be even more sensitive to detecting HCG, and can be performed earlier. Some even advertise a detection of HCG as early as seven days after ovulation. Keep in mind that accuracy of results does go down the earlier in the pregnancy that the test is performed.

How to Use a Home Pregnancy Test

In order to ensure the most effective testing process, manufacturers will recommend following the package instructions very carefully. Some will advise a woman to hold the test stick under the urine stream, and others will work better if the stick is held in a cup of urine for a few minutes.

Most will advise a woman to perform the test first thing in the morning, since HCG levels may be higher at this time. A woman using a home pregnancy test can usually have results as quickly as two minutes after the test is done. A test window on most sticks will show the user that the test has been completed properly.

Once a positive result is read on a home pregnancy test, a woman should confirm the results with her doctor. This ensures accuracy as well as allowing the woman to begin prenatal care as soon as possible.

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