There are only two primary types of pregnancy tests: blood and urine. Each of these tests fulfills the responsibility of identifying the presence of the pregnancy hormone human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG). However, the process of identification for each varies greatly.
This hormone can be detected in both blood and urine. The sole difference between blood and urine pregnancy tests is testing the vehicle of hCG (either blood or urine).
How Does a Urine Pregnancy Test Work?
All at-home pregnancy tests are urine pregnancy tests. These tests can be obtained at drug stores or grocery stores. These tests are generally the least expensive method to verify your pregnancy, and the results are up to 99% accurate.
When you take an at-home urine pregnancy test, you place several drops of urine on the test. The test is manufactured to detect the pregnancy hormone hCG. The presence of hCG will yield a positive pregnancy test result.
When taking an at-home pregnancy test, it is best to keep in mind the following tips for the most accurate results:
- Take the test after your missed period
- It takes 10 days for hCG to be present after conception, so be sure to not take the test too early
- Use early morning urine, as hCG is more concentrated after you wake up
- Do not drink excessive amounts of fluids before taking a pregnancy test, as the hCG could potentially become diluted
- Follow the directions of the pregnancy test closely
How Does a Blood Pregnancy Test Work?
It is rare to utilize a blood pregnancy test to identify hCG, however, there are circumstances in which a blood pregnancy test will yield a more accurate result.
This type of pregnancy test must be completed at a doctor’s office or hospital. One potential benefit of this type of test is it is dual-purpose.
Blood pregnancy tests not only detect the presence of hCG but also the amount of hCG present. If your healthcare provider has a suspicion that your hCG levels are abnormal, a blood pregnancy test may be performed.
What Type of Pregnancy Test is Best for Me?
Unless there are medical reasons that would alter the results of a urine pregnancy test, the best pregnancy test to show whether or not a pregnancy is present is the urine pregnancy test. A urine pregnancy test is significantly cheaper, less invasive, and can be completed in the privacy of your own home.
At AscentCare, we offer lab-grade urine pregnancy tests at no cost. After you receive your results, our team can offer you a no-cost ultrasound to verify the location of your pregnancy.
Ultrasounds are a vital next step after you verify your pregnancy with a test. Ultrasounds help keep you safe by detecting possible ectopic pregnancies, as well as giving you an estimate of your gestational age.
All of our services at AscentCare are offered at no cost. If you are in need of pregnancy services, contact our offices today!