Since no method of birth control or protection is 100% effective, if you’re experiencing symptoms of pregnancy or your birth control method failed, taking a pregnancy test is a good next step to learn more about what’s going on with your body.
Some common symptoms of pregnancy include:
- Missed period
- Nausea with or without vomiting
- Breast tenderness
- Fatigue
- Moodiness
- Bloating
- Increased urination
- Constipation
- Nasal congestion
- Food aversions
However, not all pregnant women show signs of pregnancy, so it’s best to test to be sure.
Continue reading to learn more about how to get the most accurate results from an at-home pregnancy test and the important next steps.
At-Home Pregnancy Tests
Over-the-counter pregnancy tests examine the urine for the presence of hCG (human chorionic gonadotropin), a hormone released once the pregnancy implants in the uterine lining.
If you suspect you may be pregnant, it can be tempting to want to test immediately. However, keep in mind that while pregnancies could be detected as early as 10 days after conception, hCG levels may not be detectable until closer to your missed period.
Testing no earlier than one day after your missed period is recommended for best results.
When taking an at-home test, the following tips can help you get the most accurate results:
- Test first thing in the morning
- Avoid drinking excessive amounts of liquid before testing (if hCG is diluted, results can be inaccurate)
- Read the instructions, as tests may vary slightly
While at-home tests are typically accurate, it’s best to confirm the results with a lab-quality pregnancy test and then have a follow-up ultrasound scan to provide more information about the pregnancy’s growth and development.
Follow-up Ultrasound Scan
After confirming your pregnancy with a lab-quality pregnancy test, an ultrasound scan provides further insight into the viability, gestational age, and location of your pregnancy, which all play a key role in determining your pregnancy options.
- Viability: The pregnancy is viable if there is a detectable fetal heartbeat on an ultrasound. If you have miscarried, there is no heartbeat, and in some cases, the woman may need medical assistance in passing the pregnancy.
- Gestational age: Ultrasounds can calculate the gestational age. If you’re considering abortion, how far along you are should be confirmed before termination. The FDA states that medical abortion is FDA-approved through 10 weeks gestation.
- Location: Confirming where the pregnancy has been implanted is critical for the safety of the pregnant woman. If a pregnancy is ectopic and implants outside the uterus in the abdomen, fallopian tube, ovary, or cervix, the pregnant woman needs emergency medical attention to prevent life-threatening complications.
Get Help Today
If you suspect you’re experiencing an unplanned pregnancy, you may be feeling incredibly isolated and overwhelmed.
Wellspring Pregnancy and Health Center is here to help.
We provide free, lab-quality pregnancy tests and ultrasound scans, and our medical team can answer your questions and discuss your options.
Contact us today for your confidential appointment. You can also call or text us at 402-463-7785.
