This
is probably one of the more reliable signs of pregnancy. Although
some women will experience implantation bleeding about the
time of their period, it is usually lighter and/or shorter
than their normal period.
This is why you are asked for the first day of your last normal
period. There are even a few women who will have period throughout
their pregnancy, although this is rare, it does happen.
If you've been planning for pregnancy, the day that you expect
your period is probably well marked in your mind. It is the
official day that you can take a home pregnancy test.
These
tests measure the levels of hCG (hormone secreted during pregnancy)
in your urine. The amount of urine each test can detect varies
widely. The amount of hormone each woman secretes may also
vary, but not as widely. The better tests on the market will
measure 25-50 mIUs of hCG, which is usually the amount found
in urine between the 4th and 5th weeks of pregnancy. The levels
of hCG in your urine and blood will be different.
First morning urine will always contain the highest concentration
of hCG. However, most tests do not require that you use first
morning urine. You can help better your chances of having
enough hCG in your urine by waiting four hours after you last
urinated to take the test. This will allow hCG to build up
in your urine.
These tests rarely give false results. A negative answer that
is later revealed to be a pregnancy is usually the result
of the test being performed too early. A positive that later
turns out the woman is not pregnant is usually a very early
miscarriage. Talk to your practitioner if you have questions
about your pregnancy tests.
Blood
tests are the most accurate and can be performed 7-10 days
post-ovulation.
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