If you think you could be pregnant, you may be dreading taking a test. Maybe you fear what an unexpected pregnancy could mean for you and your future.

If you’ve had unprotected sex, missed your period, or are having pregnancy symptoms, an at-home pregnancy test is a good first step to learn more about what’s going on with your body.

Continue reading to learn more about at-home pregnancy tests and important next steps after receiving a positive test.

At-Home Pregnancy Tests

Over-the-counter pregnancy tests are useful tools that can be up to 99% accurate when used after the first day of a missed period.

These tests examine your urine for the hormone human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG), which can be found in a woman’s blood and urine after a pregnancy implants in the lining of the uterus.

When testing at home, the following tips can help increase your chances of receiving an accurate result:

  • Test first thing in the morning, if possible
  • Avoid drinking too much water prior to testing to prevent dilution of hCG
  • Tests can differ, so read the instructions before testing

While uncommon, at-home pregnancy tests can give false positives, so it’s vital to have your results confirmed by a lab-quality pregnancy test to be sure.

Follow-up Ultrasound Scan

After confirming a pregnancy with a lab-quality pregnancy test, an ultrasound can provide more detailed information about the pregnancy’s growth and development and give insight into your options.

When considering your pregnancy options, the following information is critical:

  • Viability: A fetal heartbeat on ultrasound indicates the pregnancy is viable, and you can further discuss pregnancy options. If there is no heartbeat and you have miscarried, you may need further medical advice about passing the pregnancy.
  • Age: According to the FDA, a pregnancy beyond 10 weeks is ineligible for the abortion pill. An ultrasound uses measurements to calculate the age of the pregnancy and can help determine the next steps.
  • Location: Knowing the location of your pregnancy is crucial for your safety. Pregnancies most often implant in the lining of the uterus, but when a pregnancy implants outside the uterus in the abdomen, ovary, fallopian tube, or cervix, life-threatening complications can arise. This complication is known as an ectopic pregnancy and requires emergency treatment. Ectopic pregnancies cannot be treated with an abortion.

Get Help Today

If you’ve received a positive at-home pregnancy test or think you could be pregnant, Salem Pregnancy Care Center is here to help.

We offer free lab-quality pregnancy testing and limited obstetric ultrasounds. Our team can answer your questions and discuss your options.

Contact us today for your confidential appointment.