When your period is late, your first response is to wonder if you may be pregnant. Thanks to modern science, you can find out within minutes without leaving home. Home pregnancy tests, which measure the amount of the HCG hormone in urine, are highly accurate and easy to use.
Taking a Home Pregnancy Test
Step 1
Open the pregnancy test's box, then the sealed pouch inside. You should find a set of instructions and the test. For best results, you should take the test early in the morning, using your first urination of the day. This urine will have the strongest concentration of HCG and will give you the most accurate result possible.
Step 2
Read the instructions carefully. Each brand of test has an individual symbol to indicate pregnancy, and directions may vary slightly from one test to another.
Step 3
Remove the cap from the test strip and expose the strip to urine. There are two types of tests; some require you to urinate in a cup, then dip in the strip, while other tests instruct you to urinate directly on the test strip. Follow the directions that came with your home pregnancy test for best results.
Step 4
Place the pregnancy test on a level surface and wait two to three minutes, as directed by the instructions. An indicator will appear to inform you whether you are pregnant. Some tests have a control line, with an additional line to indicate pregnancy. Others have either a plus or minus sign. Digital pregnancy tests will often show the word "positive" or "negative."
Step 5
Repeat the test in seven day if your first test is negative and you continue to experience pregnancy symptoms. If your test result is positive, follow up with your doctor to confirm your test results and begin prenatal care.
Tips and Warnings
- For best results, wait to take a home pregnancy test until you've missed a period, and follow the individual test results carefully
