Being pregnant is an amazing experience. However, many women only come to the conclusion that they are pregnant after the first four weeks have passed.
What are some early pregnancy signs?
- Sensitive breasts and nipples
- Morning sickness or nausea
- Bloating
- Vaginal discharge
If you think that you are experiencing any of these initial symptoms of pregnancy, you can purchase a home pregnancy urine test to confirm your suspicion.
The 8 Steps For an Accurate Urine Pregnancy Test at Home
Here are eight simple steps to administering a home pregnancy test and reading the results.
- Expiration Date of the Test.
Ensure that the expiration date is valid and that the packaging is intact. Choose a test that is as close to the manufacturing date as possible. Test kits can become defective over time and show incorrect results.
- Do your Test First thing In The Morning.
In the morning, your hormone levels are highest. Try to get your test in before you have anything to eat or drink. Starting the digestive process alters your hormones and may impact the result.
- Read & Follow the Manufacturer’s Instructions
Different brands of tests require different administration methods. Read the instructions carefully before opening the package and beginning your test.
- Get to Know the Indicators
Understand the symbols for a positive and negative test before you get started. If you have any questions, call the manufacturer’s toll-free support line.
- Be Prepared to deal with the Results
Make sure that you are prepared to handle the results of the test, whichever way they may go. IF you do have a positive result, make sure that you don’t waste time in telling your support group and asking for their opinions and advice on your pregnancy.
- Use the Right Methodology for the Test to Ensure Accuracy
Stick to the exact method described by the manufacturer. Deviating from the process can end up producing a false result. Most test kits will require you to urinate on a stick. After a few seconds, the chemicals in the test kit will react with any presence of hCG and give you your result.
- Try to Lower Anxiety & Stress While Waiting for the Results.
While you are waiting in those tense moments before the test shows the result, stay as calm as you can. Stress releases cortisol, a hormone that can end up providing you with a miscarriage if you are pregnant. So keep your wits about you as you wait for the result.
- What to Do After the Result
Reading the results of a pregnancy test can be a life-changing moment that is filled with emotion. Make sure you are mentally prepared to read the result.
If the Result is Negative:
If the test result is negative and you have yet to receive your period, run the test again in a few days time. If you still receive a negative result, wait a few more days and run it again, or until you receive your period.
If the Result is Positive:
If your home pregnancy test is positive, do not take this as gospel. See it as a sign to arrange an appointment with your doctor for a pregnancy exam. Your doctor will run a blood test which will have accurate results and give you the closure you need.
