How Do Pregnancy Tests Work?

If you’ve recently had unprotected sex, you might be pregnant. Perhaps you have felt a little emotional lately or are using birth control, but your period is late. These are all signs of possible pregnancy.

Learn how pregnancy tests work and if you should take one at home.

Do I Need to Take A Pregnancy Test? 

Even if you’re on birth control, sex can lead to an unexpected pregnancy. No birth control is 100% effective.

The only sure way to know whether you’re pregnant is to take a lab-grade pregnancy test and confirm with an ultrasound. 

But before you schedule these tests, you may experience some early signs of pregnancy. Early pregnancy symptoms include:

• Swollen or tender breasts
• Nausea with or without vomiting
• Fatigue 
• Increased urination. 

Some women may experience changes in their mood also. Feeling unusually weepy or emotional may also point to pregnancy. 

How Do Pregnancy Tests Work?

At-home pregnancy tests work by detecting the human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) hormone. When a fertilized egg implants in the uterine lining, the placenta begins to form and starts producing hCG. 

Hormone levels continue to increase as the pregnancy grows. High levels of hCG are present in women’s urine and blood when pregnant. Pregnancy tests detect hCG and show a positive result when the levels are high enough. 

I’m Pregnant. What Should I Do Next?

You’ve had a positive pregnancy test. Now what? The next step is to schedule an ultrasound. 

Mendo Lake Women’s Clinic  provides no-cost ultrasounds in a caring environment with a professional medical staff. 

An advocate at our clinic will discuss the test results with you and provide evidence based education to support your personal goals. 

An unplanned pregnancy can be hard to deal with, but having people to support your future can make all the difference. Text (707) 272-3051 or call (707) 463-1436 to make an appointment. Your future is bright!