Pregnancy Tests
Early Pregnancy Signs and Symptoms
Besides a skipped period, there are some other signs and symptoms of early pregnancy. They include:
- Tender, swollen or enlarged breasts.
- Fatigue.
- Nausea, with or without actual vomiting.
- Food aversions or cravings.
- Headaches.
- Constipation.
- Mood swings.
- Dizziness and/or faintness.
- Slight bleeding or spotting and cramping.
About Home Pregnancy Tests
Home pregnancy tests are the fastest and most private way to determine whether or not you might be pregnant. They are widely available in drug stores, grocery stores and other discount stores. Even some dollar stores have been known to carry their own affordable brands. If you can afford the weight, you can also find cheap pregnancy tests online. However, if you're looking for an immediate answer, going to the store and purchasing a test would be the quickest option. You do not need a doctor's prescription as they are available over the counter. While they range in price, home pregnancy tests are an affordable way to determine pregnancy.
Home pregnancy tests measure the presence of hCG, a hormone present during pregnancy. Most tests can detect the presence of hCG as early as the first day of your missed period. Some claim to offer earlier results as well. However, if you get a negative result and still don't have your period within a week, it would be wise to take another test. If you are still receiving a negative result without the arrival of your period, you need to contact your health care provider.
To Assure the Most Accurate Results, Follow These Tips
- Check the expiration date on the package before you buy the home pregnancy test. Do not purchase an expired test!
- Even if you have used a home pregnancy test before, read the directions that are included with your kit. Whether you are using the same brand as a prior testing or a different one, things may have changed during that time. Read the directions!
- Do not drink a large amount of fluid prior to taking the home pregnancy test. The fluid can dilute your urine and thus skew the results. Most tests suggest using your First Morning Urine because it is the most concentrated and would thus have the largest presence of hCG, the pregnancy hormone.
- Do not read the results after the directions say they are invalid. (Often after ten minutes.) An evaporation line may appear causing you to think that you are pregnant when you are not!
- If you have questions, most of the home pregnancy kits have a toll-free number to call. Use it!
Comparing Tests
When you go to buy your home pregnancy test, you might feel overwhelmed with the choices. Here are a few that are currently on the market with some comparable information that includes how soon after your missed period you can take the test, whether or not First Morning Urine (FMU) is required, how long the results take to appear and the important contact information. More tests are on the market so be sure to do your research before buying a test!
| Name | Day of Missed Period | Urine | Length of Test | Contact Info |
| Accuclear | Day 1 | Any Urine | 3 minutes | 1-800-899-7353 Website |
| Answer Early Result | Day 1 or Earlier | Any Urine | 3 Minutes | 1-800-833-9532 |
| Baby Test/New Choice | Day 1 | FMU | 1-3 Minutes | 1-800-351-0177 |
| Clearblue Easy Digital | Day 1 | Any Urine | 3 Minutes | 1-800-321-EASY (3279) Website |
| E.P.T. Certainty | Day 1 | Any Urine | 3 Minutes | 1-800-378-1783 |
| First Response Early Result | Day 1 or Earlier | Any Urine | 3 Minutes | 1-800-367-6022 Website |
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