If you think you might be pregnant, this is one test you want to get right. Following some simple steps will help you get an accurate result, so read on to learn more.
If you think you might be pregnant, this is one test you want to get right. Following some simple steps will help you get an accurate result, so read on to learn more.
It can be an emotional time, so it’s best to keep calm, take your time and make sure you have privacy before taking a test.
The first thing to do is check the expiry date on your test, to make sure it’s not out of date. Then read all the instructions carefully before you do anything.
Depending on the type of test, the instructions will tell you how to do your urine sample – you’ll either need to collect it in a cup or hold the testing stick in your urine stream while you wee.
There will be slight differences depending on which brand of test you’re using, but the process is usually fairly similar. Once you’ve read all the instructions, the test will probably involve 3 steps:
To help make sure you get an accurate result, it’s best to wait until at least the day your next period is due before using a home pregnancy test.
This is because the test works by checking your wee (urine) for a hormone called human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG), which your body starts making as soon as you’re pregnant. But in the very early stages of pregnancy, your levels of hCG can be too low to be detected by a pregnancy test kit.
It’s also a good idea to do the test first thing in the morning, when your urine is more concentrated – if it’s diluted, it will contain less hCG.
Medications that contain hCG, such as fertility treatments, could affect your test result. If in any doubt, check with your pharmacist or doctor.
It’s also best not to drink too much water or other fluids before doing a test, as this will dilute your urine and could affect the levels of hCG.
Important: Our website provides useful information but is not a substitute for medical advice. You should always seek the advice of your doctor when making decisions about your health.