While both urine and pregnancy tests detect the hormone hCG, urine tests are more widely available and have a reactive strip designed to test positive if the pregnancy hormone is present.
Blood tests also detect hCG but require a visit to the doctor’s office and do not yield immediate results.
At Options for Women, we offer free, urine-based pregnancy testing and can help you estimate the best time to take one. Reach out to schedule a visit.
Urine Pregnancy Tests
Urine pregnancy tests detect hCG in a urine sample. If used accurately and taken within the recommended window (up to a week after your first missed period), it can boast up to 99% accuracy.
Taking the test too early may cause a false-negative because hCG levels may not be high enough to be detected.
Blood Pregnancy Tests
Blood pregnancy tests detect hCG by taking a small blood sample drawn from a vein in your arm. Since hCG appears in the bloodstream before it is detectable in urine, blood tests can identify pregnancy earlier than urine tests.
Unlike urine tests, blood tests can also measure the amount of hCG present, so that they can detect the pregnancy earlier than a urine test, up to 7 to 10 days from conception.
However, a blood or urine-based pregnancy test can only confirm the presence of the pregnancy hormone in your body. These tests cannot confirm the location of the pregnancy, the estimated gestational age, or whether the pregnancy is still progressing. These crucial details can be confirmed with an ultrasound.
Where to Get Free Pregnancy Resources?
If you have already received a positive pregnancy result, an ultrasound is always recommended so that you know the health of your pregnancy, which can affect your available options.
At Options for Women, we offer no-cost pregnancy tests and ultrasounds on a case-by-case basis at our center so that you can feel confident and informed as you determine your next steps.
No matter your circumstances, you deserve accurate information and compassionate support. Contact us today!