Home Pregnancy Test
How accurate is it?

A home pregnancy test is as easy as taking a bath in the comfort of your home.

Are you afraid or ashamed to go to the doctor to check if you are pregnant?

I am sure you cannot wait more and you want to announce to everyone that you are already pregnant, right?

I understand you, this is one of the most desperate and impatient moments that all women live when we are about to know if we are pregnant or not. It is better to know as soon as possible the result to move to the next step immediately, right?

I'd never done a pregnancy test ever before, and believe me; home pregnancy tests are as easy as taking a bath. When the test was painted pink, I felt my legs were shaking of happiness. It was the happiest moment I’ve ever had in my life. I was completely sure I was pregnant, but my husband wanted a second opinion so we went to the doctor. Yes, I was pregnant, expecting a beautiful baby who is now my whole life.

A home pregnancy test can be performed in the comfort of your home and just in few minutes you will know the results: Positive or Negative?

• When should I perform a pregnancy test?
• How these tests work?
• How reliable or accurate are these tests?
• What is the difference between a home pregnancy test and one performed with my doctor, for example a blood test?
• Where can I acquire these kinds of tests?

When should I perform a pregnancy test?

You can get the best result of your home pregnancy test if you perform it after your period is due. I recommend you to wait at least 3 days. There are other reasons why your period can be late, for example: stress, schedule changes, overweight and low weight.

If you have regular periods, this test may be done even one day after your period is due. There are some home pregnancy tests very sensitive that can detect the pregnancy hormone even before your period, but do not get desperate, wait your menstruation as expected.

If you want to rush to make a pregnancy test, even before your period date, here you have a tip:

After having sex, and considering that you are ovulating, wait at least 8 or 10 days for a pregnancy test, preferably wait 15 days. After this time, you can ensure that the pregnancy hormone is present and it can be detected by the pregnancy test. The difficulty here is to know when you are ovulating, right? Do not worry; there are ovulation tests that you can perform. Try this free ovulation calculator

Do not get disappointed if the pregnancy test is negative. There is always a second chance.

How these tests work?

After placing the urine in the tape, you have to wait around 5 minutes; however, this may vary depending on the brand and sensitivity of the pregnancy test. Read the instructions carefully to be sure to perform the test properly and enhance its effectiveness.

The test can be performed at any time of the day, however I suggest you to do it the first thing in the morning, because the urine tends to have a higher level of concentration.

How reliable or accurate are these tests?

The result of these tests depends largely on when to perform the test. Do not rush; perform the test after the date you are expecting your period. If you do the test before the date of your period, you may obtain a negative result.

If you perform the test after the date you are expecting your period and you get a negative result, perform the test again, 2 or 3 days later. If the test still remains negative, it is best that you consider some irregularity in your menstruation and consult your doctor immediately.

Another aspect that you have to consider is to examine the package to make sure it has not past its expiration date, since the result will not be accurate.

If you get a positive result, I recommend a second confirmation, either a blood test or re-done the home pregnancy test 2 or 3 days later.

What is the difference between a home pregnancy test and one performed with my doctor, for example a blood test?

A blood test can detect the hormone hCG closer to the beginning of pregnancy than urine test. This means that you could do a blood test about 6 to 8 days after ovulation. Unlike urine testing, you have to wait 8 to 10 days, preferably 15 days.

The home pregnancy test is practically cheaper than a blood test, and faster to obtain a result.

Where can I acquire or buy these kinds of tests?

You can take these urine tests as a first resource to know if you are pregnant. These tests are good, quick and cheap. In the worst case if the first try is negative, you just have to buy a second test, and try again.

If the result is positive, I still recommend you to visit your doctor for a blood test to be 100% sure of your pregnancy. Do not forget the beautiful ritual of announcing your pregnancy to your family and friends.

If the result of the home pregnancy test is negative, even with two attempts, see your doctor to find out any symptoms of an irregular menstruation.

Read about other pregnancy tests:

Blood Test | Online Pregnancy Test | Ultrasound Test