Taking a pregnancy test is often the first step when you’re facing an unexpected situation. Whether you’re feeling anxious, overwhelmed, or unsure, you’re not alone—and it’s okay to seek answers.
At-home tests are a common first choice, but you can get no-cost, lab-quality testing at our center to get accurate results you can trust.
How Do Pregnancy Tests Work?
Pregnancy tests work by detecting a hormone called hCG (human chorionic gonadotropin) in your body. This hormone begins to increase once a fertilized egg implants in the uterus and the placenta starts to form. Once hCG levels are high enough, a test can show a positive result.
When Should You Take a Pregnancy Test?
Many women test when they notice early signs of pregnancy, like a missed period, nausea, or fatigue. But these symptoms aren’t always proof of pregnancy. The most accurate time to test is a day or two after a missed period, according to the Mayo Clinic. Testing too early can lead to a false negative because your hCG levels may not be high enough to detect yet.
For best results, try testing first thing in the morning, when your urine is most concentrated and hCG levels are at their peak.
What Happens If Your Test Is Positive?
If your test comes back positive, take a moment to breathe. It’s okay not to have everything figured out. The next step is to confirm your result with a lab-quality pregnancy testing and potentially a limited ultrasound, which can tell you how far along you are and if the pregnancy is developing inside the uterus.
If your test is negative, and you still suspect you might be pregnant, you may have tested too early. Wait a few days and test again, following the instructions closely.
Our Team Is Here for You
At Arise Center for Women, our caring and knowledgeable team offers free, confidential pregnancy testing and support. We’ll walk with you through each step, answer your questions, and provide the information you need to make a fully informed decision.
Schedule your no-cost appointment today—we’re here to support you, no matter what.
