If you’ve taken a pregnancy test and are unsure about the results, understanding how pregnancy tests work and when to take one can help you know what to do next.

Bella Women’s Center is here to help you confirm your pregnancy. We provide free and confidential pregnancy testing, limited ultrasounds, and options counseling, as well as the opportunity to ask any questions.

Schedule your appointment today.

What a Pregnancy Test Detects

Pregnancy tests work by detecting a hormone called human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) in your bloodstream or urine. Your body starts producing hCG after implantation, when the fertilized egg attaches to the lining of the uterus. Implantation typically occurs about 6–10 days after conception.

Although a pregnancy test detects hCG, it doesn’t provide you with information about how the pregnancy is developing. This is why an ultrasound is an important next step.

When To Take a Pregnancy Test

It is recommended to take a pregnancy test one to two days after your missed period to allow enough time for hCG levels to rise and become detectable. If your test result is negative but your period still hasn’t arrived, retesting after a few days is recommended.

Taking a pregnancy test too early could result in a false negative. If you have irregular periods, then try testing four weeks after you have sex. If you are unsure of when to take a test or are confused about your results, Bella Women’s Center can help you retest and understand your results.

Are Pregnancy Tests Accurate?

Home pregnancy tests are up to 99% accurate when used correctly. However, some factors can affect your results, leading to false negatives or false positives.

Testing too early, using an expired test, or drinking a large amount of fluid before taking your test could cause inaccurate results. It is recommended to take a pregnancy test with first morning urine since this is when hCG is more concentrated.

A false positive is rare but also possible if you have recently had a pregnancy loss or are taking fertility medications that contain hCG. Problems with the ovaries and menopause also might lead to a false-positive test result.

What To Do After a Positive Pregnancy Test

If your pregnancy test result is positive, you might feel a mix of emotions and be unsure about your next step. Getting an ultrasound after a positive pregnancy test can provide important details about your pregnancy.

A limited ultrasound at our center will be able to show you:

• The location of the pregnancy
• How far along the pregnancy is
• Whether the pregnancy is viable

This information can help protect your health by identifying concerns such as an ectopic pregnancy or signs that you may have already miscarried.

Get Pregnancy Confirmation at Bella Women’s Center

You don’t have to decide everything at once right now. Whether you need someone to talk to confidentially or our free pregnancy confirmation services, our door is open.

Our staff is here to answer any questions you have, provide accurate information about your options, and explain your results. Contact us to make your appointment.