How To Read A Pregnancy Test Correctly

Taking an at-home pregnancy test can be a pretty nerve-wracking experience, right? Whether you’re actively trying to conceive or not, it’s important to know exactly what those little blue and pink lines mean. So if you’re planning on taking a pregnancy test soon, make sure you’re in the know by reading our top tips.

How To Use A Use a Pregnancy Test

Taking a home pregnancy test is pretty simple. Just urinate on the test strip and wait for a few minutes for the result. To ensure you get an accurate reading, there are a few things you should consider beforehand.

Follow the instructions properly

We know this is obvious, but it can be easy to get wrong, especially if you’re a first-timer. Read the instructions thoroughly and ensure you urinate on the correct part of the stick and for the correct amount of time.

Don’t take it too early

Although it can be tempting to take a test immediately, it’s best to wait for a few days after you’ve missed your period. The accuracy of a home pregnancy test is 97% if you test after your period is due. If you aren’t sure of the date of your next period, simply take the test 21 days after you had unprotected sex.

Take the test first thing in the morning

This is the best time to test because your urine is more concentrated, making it easier to detect the pregnancy hormone, HCG. If you’re taking it later in the day, avoid drinking too much fluid first as this will dilute your urine

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How To Read Pregnancy Test Results

Great, so you’ve taken the test- but what about the result?

If you went digital

The digital tests are easier to read, they give you a written ‘pregnant’ or ‘not pregnant’ result on screen.

Know your lines

If you’re taking a non-digital test make sure you understand how to read your results. Generally, one line (usually pink or blue) indicates that the test is working, while two lines indicate that you are pregnant. If you’re worried about faulty tests or doing it wrong, buy a two-pack or digital test just in case.

If the test is positive

Then you are probably pregnant. False positives are rare. Once you have a positive result, call your doctor to arrange a scan to confirm your pregnancy.

If the test is negative

There are many reasons for a negative test result and a missed period. You’re probably not pregnant, but you may want to re-test later on just to make sure.

Still unsure?

If you’re still unsure about the next steps, we suggest booking an appointment with your GP. Your doctor can advise you and arrange a blood test to accurately determine whether you’re pregnant or not.

How Do Pregnancy Tests Work?

In a nutshell, home pregnancy tests are designed to detect the pregnancy hormone, human chorionic gonadontrophin (HCG). If you’re pregnant, this hormone will be present in your urine and produce a positive pregnancy test.

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How Do I Increase My Chances Of Getting Pregnant?

If you’re trying to conceive, there are a number of products out there that can help you understand your menstrual cycle and boost fertility. From ovulation tests to pregnancy supplements, they’re all designed to maximise your chances of falling pregnant.