Some home pregnancy tests are easier to use and read than others. Be sure to follow the instructions exactly for accurate results.

Human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) can be detected in blood before it is detectable in the urine. A blood test can confirm a pregnancy about 6 days after the fertilized egg implants into the uterus (even before a missed menstrual period).

Many women are able to tell if they are pregnant simply by observing their bodily changes. A missed menstrual period, breast tenderness, morning nausea, and fatigue may be early signs of pregnancy.

However, a home pregnancy test can confirm pregnancy when a menstrual period is late. Some health professionals may insist on doing another pregnancy test in their laboratories to confirm the pregnancy before beginning prenatal care.

If you are thinking of becoming pregnant, consider changes in your nutrition (such as avoiding alcohol and taking a vitamin containing folic acid) to reduce the risk of birth defects. Good nutrition before and during your pregnancy can help improve both your health and the health of your baby.

If you are thinking of becoming pregnant, determining your most fertile time (ovulation) can be monitored in several ways. Ovulation test kits may assist you in determining your most fertile time. These are available without a prescription.

Early confirmation of pregnancy can be very useful. It may allow you to start proper prenatal care during the first month of pregnancy, when the risk of harm to the foetus is greatest. Or, if the pregnancy is unwanted, an early confirmation of pregnancy can help you arrange for an abortion within a few weeks after you become pregnant. A medical abortion is most effective within the first 7 weeks (first trimester) of pregnancy.

Some common questions related to home pregnancy tests include:

Why did I see a faint positive side line an hour after I did the test?

You may be pregnant but your hCG level may not be high enough in your urine. Take another test in a few days or discuss a blood hCG test with your health professional.

Why was my test positive shortly before I started my menstrual cycle?

You need to have a blood hCG level for further evaluation.

Can I be pregnant but get a negative test?

Yes, most women will get a positive test within a few days of missing their menstrual period but some women may test negative this early.

Do alcohol or drugs interfere with the test?

Most test results are not affected by alcohol or drugs but you should avoid these substances if you think you may be pregnant.