Home urine pregnancy tests detect the presence of human chorionic gonadotropin, a hormone produced by a woman when she is pregnant. Properly used, a home pregnancy test is as accurate as the urine tests used in a doctor's office. Depending on the sensitivity of the pregnancy test, you may be able to test for pregnancy as early as the day you expect your period.
Step 1
Place the timer, test and clean cup in the bathroom so they will be ready for you in the morning when you first awaken.
Step 2
Wash and dry your hands thoroughly upon awakening before you use the toilet.
Step 3
Open the pregnancy test outer wrapper and remove the protective cap on the pregnancy test to expose the absorbent tip.
Step 4
Saturate the absorbent tip of the pregnancy test by holding it in your urine stream or dipping it in a clean cup in which you have collected your urine. If your particular test specifies a midstream urine sample, urinate a small amount into the toilet first, then hold the absorbent tip in your urine stream or catch your urine in a clean up.
Step 5
Replace the cap on the test. Place the test on a level surface with the indicator windows facing up.
Step 6
Set the timer for the appropriate length of time as indicated by your instructions, usually from three to five minutes.
Step 7
Check the control window when the allotted time has expired. If the control window indicates the test functioned properly, check the indicator window to see if the result is positive or negative.
Step 8
Follow up with the appropriate action based on the results that you receive. Schedule prenatal care if your result was positive. Retest if your result was negative and your period does not begin in a few days.
Tips and Warnings
- Carefully read and follow the instructions that come with the test you purchased for best results. Use your first morning urine for most accurate results.
- Do not open the pregnancy test until instructed to do by the instructions that come with the test you purchased. Do not use an expired test. Do not read the test after the allotted period of time has passed; the results may no longer be accurate.
Things You'll Need
- Timer
- Clean cup
