Finding out whether you're pregnant can be exciting and nervy at the same time. However, there are reliable tests for pregnancy. These tests can help confirm the news with accuracy. Early detection helps you plan ahead, seek medical care and ensure a healthy journey ahead.
What are the different types of pregnancy tests?
There are two main types of pregnancy tests: urine tests and blood tests.
● Urine pregnancy test
It’s the most commonly used test to detect pregnancy. A pregnant pregnancy test detects the presence of the human chorionic gonadotropin (HCG) hormone in urine. You can take this test at home. Home pregnancy kits are easy to use, giving results within minutes.
These kits are available in pharmacies. However, to be sure, it's best to take the test a few days after a missed period. Also, there are certain things to be kept in mind before taking this test. These include:
- Using your first-morning urine for the test, when HCG levels are expected to be the highest
- Avoiding excessive amounts of fluids before taking the test, as these can dilute HCG levels
- Checking the kit's expiration date
- Following the instructions given in the kit and do accordingly for accurate results
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Blood pregnancy test
Blood tests are another type of pregnancy test. These are done at a healthcare facility and are more sensitive than urine tests. They can detect pregnancy earlier than urine tests. Blood tests for pregnancy are of two types, namely:
- Qualitative HCG test: This confirms whether HCG is present in the blood.
- Quantitative HCG test: This measures the exact level of HCG in the blood.
In this test, your blood sample is taken and sent to the lab for testing. The results are usually out within the same day. Make sure to take the test at a reliable and trusted lab.
Conclusion
Taking a pregnancy test at the right time ensures you receive early prenatal care. If you're planning for a baby, checking with different types of pregnancy tests can help you confirm the results before making further decisions. Once you confirm your pregnancy, thinking about financial planning is crucial. Maternity insurance can help cover pregnancy-related medical expenses, including doctor consultations, ultrasounds, hospital stays, and delivery costs.
Disclaimer: The information provided in this blog is for educational and informational purposes only. It is not intended as a substitute for professional advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Please consult your general physician or another certified medical professional for any questions regarding a medical condition. Relying on any information provided in this blog is solely at your own risk, and ICICI Lombard is not responsible for any effects or consequences resulting from the use of the information shared.