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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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