Key Points
- Pregnancy tests work by detecting the hormone hCG, which is produced after a fertilized egg attaches to the uterus, typically six days after fertilization.
- Symptoms of pregnancy such as a missed period, bloating, fatigue, and nausea can also be symptoms of other conditions, making a pregnancy test the only sure way to confirm pregnancy.
- It's advised to wait at least a week after a missed period before taking a pregnancy test for the most accurate results.
- There are two main types of pregnancy tests: urine and blood tests, with urine tests being the most common due to their convenience.
- Solv is recommended for finding convenient, same-day pregnancy testing at a nearby urgent care center.
It can be nerve-wracking to not know if you’re pregnant, but a pregnancy test will help you know for sure. Pregnancy tests are designed to detect a hormone called human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG), which starts being made right after a fertilized egg attaches to the wall of a uterus, which usually happens about six days after fertilization. If you’re pregnant, levels of hCG continue to rise rapidly, doubling every two to three days! Some of the symptoms you may be experiencing if you’re pregnant include:
- Missed period
- Swollen or tender breasts
- Bloating and constipation
- Feeling tired, or fatigue
- Peeing more than usual
- Nausea and/or vomiting
Some early pregnancy symptoms can sometimes mimic other common conditions, including PMS, so the only way to know if you’re definitely pregnant is by taking a test. Since it can take up to two weeks after conception for the pregnancy hormone to kick in, you should avoid taking the test too early so you’re not risking a false negative. Ideally, wait at least a week after a missed period for the most accurate result, and to increase the accuracy even further, do the test first thing in the morning, when your urine is the most concentrated.
There are two main types of pregnancy tests that you can take: urine tests and blood tests. Urine tests are the most popular, and can be done at home or in a doctor’s office, although you should always confirm a positive result with a trip to the doctor. Blood tests are done at a doctor’s office and can detect pregnancy six to eight days after ovulation – although the results take longer to get back then urine tests.
If you’re looking for a place that offers fast, convenient pregnancy testing near you, Solv can make it easy. We will match you with a nearby urgent care center that accepts your insurance and will allow you to make a same-day appointment, so you can get the results you’re so anxiously waiting for as soon as possible.
Frequently asked questions
What hormone does a pregnancy test detect?
A pregnancy test detects the hormone hCG, which is produced after a fertilized egg attaches to the uterus.When is the best time to take a pregnancy test for the most accurate results?
It's recommended to wait at least a week after a missed period before taking a pregnancy test for the most accurate results.Can symptoms of pregnancy be confused with other conditions?
Yes, symptoms of pregnancy such as bloating, fatigue, and nausea can also be symptoms of other conditions like PMS.What are the two main types of pregnancy tests?
The two main types of pregnancy tests are urine tests and blood tests.Why are urine tests more popular than blood tests for pregnancy?
Urine tests are more popular because they are convenient and provide quick results.How soon after ovulation can a blood test detect pregnancy?
A blood test can detect pregnancy six to eight days after ovulation.Can I get a pregnancy test done on the same day I decide to take one?
Yes, Solv is recommended for finding convenient, same-day pregnancy testing at a nearby urgent care center.How often do hCG levels double if you're pregnant?
If you're pregnant, hCG levels typically double every two to three days.