Trying to conceive? Learn when to take a pregnancy test, understand pregnancy test price ranges, and get accurate results with this comprehensive guide. A double marker test can further confirm pregnancy and screen for abnormalities. Find out the double marker test price and more below.
When to Take a Pregnancy Test
The best time to take a home pregnancy test is after the first day of your missed period. This allows the hCG levels in your urine to rise sufficiently for accurate detection. Some sensitive tests may work a few days before your missed period, but for the most reliable results, wait until at least the first day of your expected period.
Taking the test first thing in the morning, when your urine is most concentrated, can further improve accuracy. If you get a negative result but still suspect pregnancy, wait a few days and retest. False negatives are more common than false positives, especially if testing too early.
How Pregnancy Tests Work
Pregnancy tests detect the hormone human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) in your urine or blood. hCG is produced by the placenta shortly after the embryo attaches to the uterine lining and increases rapidly in the first few weeks of pregnancy.
There are two main types of pregnancy tests:
- Urine tests: These are the most common home tests. They involve holding the test stick in your urine stream, dipping it in a cup of collected urine, or placing urine drops on the test area. Results appear within minutes.
- Blood tests: These are done by a healthcare provider and can detect pregnancy earlier than urine tests. There are two types:
- Qualitative tests simply check for the presence of hCG.
- Quantitative tests (beta hCG) measure the exact amount of hCG in your blood.
Accuracy of Pregnancy Tests
When taken correctly, home pregnancy tests are about 99% accurate. However, their accuracy depends on:
- When you take the test in relation to your missed period
- Following the instructions precisely
- The sensitivity of the particular test brand
Some tests are more sensitive than others and can detect lower levels of hCG. In general, waiting until the day of your expected period will give you the most accurate results.
Blood tests are even more accurate than urine tests and can detect pregnancy as early as 6–8 days after ovulation. They are typically done to confirm pregnancy after a positive home test.
Confirming Pregnancy with Additional Tests
After a positive home pregnancy test, your doctor may order a double marker test. This blood test measures two pregnancy-related hormones: hCG and PAPP-A (pregnancy-associated plasma protein A). It helps confirm pregnancy and screen for certain chromosomal abnormalities, such as Down syndrome and trisomy 18.
The double marker test price is usually higher than a standard pregnancy test price, but it provides valuable information about your pregnancy and your baby's health. Your doctor can discuss the benefits and help you decide if this additional testing is right for you.
Conclusion
By understanding the different types of tests, their sensitivity, and the factors that can affect the accuracy of pregnancy tests, you can feel more confident in your results. If you have a positive test, talk to your healthcare provider about additional testing options, such as the double marker test, to confirm your pregnancy and assess your baby's health.
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