How Do Pregnancy Tests Work?

Pregnancy tests work by detecting a hormone called human chorionic gonadotropin (HCG) in your body. If you think you might be pregnant, it’s important to know the proper time to take a pregnancy test in order to get an accurate result.

Choosing a Pregnancy Test 

Do I Need a Blood Test or Urine Test to Know If I’m Pregnant? 

Blood tests and urine tests both test for HCG. A blood test at a doctor’s office might show that you are pregnant sooner than a urine test, but both can be good options. 

The over-the-counter pregnancy tests available at stores are urine tests. 

Could a Home Pregnancy Test Be Wrong?

Home pregnancy tests are the first step for many women who suspect pregnancy, and when used at the proper time, they are reliable. However, inaccurate results are possible, and some types of home pregnancy tests may be more likely to give false negatives.

Taking a Pregnancy Test

How Soon After Unprotected Sex Can I Take a Pregnancy Test?

It takes time for detectable levels of HCG to build up in your body, so taking the test too soon won’t actually do you any good. You could be pregnant but get a false negative.

For accuracy, take a pregnancy test after your first missed period. If you have questions about when the right time is for you, give us a call.

How Do I Take a Home Pregnancy Test?

Depending on the brand you buy, you might urinate directly onto the plastic stick, or you might urinate in a cup and dip the test strip into the urine. 

No matter what kind of test you get, make sure you read the instructions carefully and know how to interpret the results. Every pregnancy test is a little different. 

Did I Take My Home Pregnancy Test Correctly?

If you’re unsure whether you took your home pregnancy test correctly, don’t worry. Contact us and we can schedule an appointment for you to take a free pregnancy test at our center. 

Our staff is experienced at advising the best time to take a pregnancy test and how to interpret the results.

Should I Take More Than One Pregnancy Test?

You may take a second pregnancy test for verification, whether your result at home is positive or negative. We provide pregnancy tests at no cost to you, whether you choose to visit us for your first test or if you want to follow up on a test you took at home. 

If you test positive at our center, our staff may recommend a free ultrasound to confirm your pregnancy. (That’s because a pregnancy test on its own won’t show if a pregnancy is progressing or located properly within the uterus.)

Where To Get a Pregnancy Test for Free

If you’re in the Las Vegas area, make an appointment today for free pregnancy testing! All of our services are free and confidential.