Reading a pregnancy test involves knowing the difference between the results window and the control window as well as identifying what symbols or words are used for a positive or negative result. After the test has worked, a symbol like a single vertical line will appear in the control window so you know the test worked. You can perform the test at any time of the day, but the first morning urine has the highest concentration of hCG, which is the pregnancy hormone detected by the test.
Step 1
Examine the test stick. Identify the control window and the results window, which are both protected under a clear plastic cover. These windows are circular, oval or square in shape and the control window is usually smaller than the results window. Not every test will have a control window.
Step 2
Use the pregnancy test by holding the absorbent tip at a downward angle in your urine stream for approximately five seconds. If you are uncomfortable performing the test this way, you can submerge the absorbent tip in a clean cup filled with urine for approximately five to 20 seconds. Instructions found in the pregnancy test box will specify the exact amount of time to leave the absorbent tip in your urine stream and the length of time to submerge the tip in the cup of urine.
Step 3
Lay the pregnancy test on a flat surface with the results window facing up. You may notice a pink or blue color spreading across the results window or the control window.
Step 4
Wait two to three minutes before looking at the results window. Look for a line in the control window. The symbol for a positive or negative result depends on the brand of pregnancy test, and many pregnancy tests have examples of the positive and negative results printed onto the test beside the results window. The symbols for a positive result can be a plus sign or two vertical lines, and a negative result can show up as a single vertical line. The results are positive even if the lines or plus sign are not the same shade of color, because one line can be bold and the other faint. Digital pregnancy tests are much easier to read, because a positive result will show up as a single word such as “yes” or “pregnant” and a negative result will show up as “no” or “not pregnant.”
Step 5
Wait an additional three to four minutes if you don’t see a symbol in the results window. Don’t read a pregnancy test after 10 minutes, because an evaporation line can appear, which you may misinterpret as a positive result.
Step 6
Wait one week before retaking the pregnancy test if the results are negative and you still feel you may be pregnant or if you are experiencing symptoms of pregnancy such as tender breasts, fatigue, nausea, vomiting and food aversions or cravings.
Things You'll Need
- Pregnancy test
- Cup
