Usually, a late or missed period is the first sign women experience when they’re pregnant, but you can also skip a period for other reasons. The place to start is with a pregnancy test. Purchase a urine pregnancy test over the counter or get a blood test from your healthcare provider. Both are identifying a particular pregnancy hormone that tells whether you’re pregnant.
How do you know which test to take? We’ll explain the difference and tell you how to get free, confidential pregnancy testing.
What Are the Early Pregnancy Symptoms?
Every woman experiences pregnancy differently. Some women feel every symptom immediately, while others don’t have any symptoms for weeks.
Here are some other early pregnancy symptoms:
- Frequent trips to the bathroom
- Feeling tired
- Feeling nauseous
- Sore and swollen breasts
What is a Urine Pregnancy Test?
Whether you have a blood or urine test, both work to detect a certain level of a pregnancy hormone known as human chorionic gonadotrophin (hCG). This hormone helps to support a growing embryo.
Once a woman becomes pregnant, hCG levels slowly begin to rise and eventually enter both the urine and the bloodstream. Waiting until after your missed period helps you get the most accurate results.
A urine test requires you to either pee in a cup or place the pregnancy test strip in your urine stream. Ensure the test date is current, and take it first thing in the morning when your urine is most concentrated.
Waiting for the exact time the test indicates is also essential for accurate results.
Why Do Some Women Get Blood Tests?
A healthcare provider uses blood tests for special reasons. They are more sensitive than urine tests. Blood tests detect the hCG hormone and determine the amount produced. High hCG levels may indicate you are carrying twins or there’s an issue with the pregnancy.
Blood tests are more expensive and take longer to get results. As a result, urine pregnancy tests are more common.
Where Can I Get Free Pregnancy Testing?
PCS Health offers free and confidential pregnancy testing. Even if you’ve taken a home test, visit us for a second test. One of our compassionate team members can help you get accurate pregnancy test results and discuss your results with you immediately following.
Schedule an appointment online, call us at (530) 626-6720 or text us at (530) 363-8110. We’re here for you.