Pregnancy tests work by detecting a hormone in your body called human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG), which can appear as early as 10 days after conception. If you think you might be pregnant, the time at which you take your pregnancy test matters. Taking a test too early can lead to inaccurate results because hCG levels may not yet be detectable. It’s important to know when to test to get the most reliable result.

Keep reading to learn how to choose the right test and determine the best timing. At Mercy Ministries, we offer lab-quality pregnancy tests at no cost. Schedule an appointment today.

Choosing a Pregnancy Test

Do I Need a Blood Test or a Urine Test?

Both blood and urine tests detect the pregnancy hormone hCG. A blood test, performed at a doctor’s office, can detect pregnancy a little earlier than a urine test. That said, both options are highly accurate when taken at the right time.

Almost all over-the-counter pregnancy tests you find in stores are urine tests, with a strip that detects whether or not hCG is found in urine.

Are At-Home Pregnancy Tests Reliable?

Yes, unless used incorrectly or the pregnancy test is defective, at-home pregnancy (urine) tests boast over 99% accuracy.

How Soon Can I Take a Pregnancy Test?

Taking a pregnancy test immediately won’t give you reliable results because it takes a while for your body to produce detectable levels of hCG. If you take the test too soon, you can get a false negative.

The best time to take a pregnancy test is after your first missed period.

Where To Get a Pregnancy Test for Free

At Mercy Ministries, we offer free pregnancy testing. We can also help you calculate the best time to take it for the most accurate results.

If you test positive, we can provide an ultrasound referral to give you important details about your pregnancy.

Contact us today to schedule an appointment!