You think you might be pregnant. Maybe you had unprotected sex, or maybe you missed your period.
It’s important to take a pregnancy test soon. Here’s how to take a urine pregnancy test to ensure as accurate results as possible.
Take the test according to the directions.
Not all pregnancy tests are the same. Read the directions to understand how to test your urine, how long to let it sit, and what results will look like for this specific brand. Typically, you will either run the test under your stream of urine or submerge it in a cup of urine for a few seconds.
Tip: Take the test first thing in the morning when your hormone levels are the highest. This ensures you’re getting the most accurate result, especially if you’re testing before a missed period.
Lay your test flat and wait.
Check the directions for how long to wait for results. You could get an inaccurate result if you check it too early or too late.
Read your results.
- Two lines mean you’re pregnant in a dye-based test (even if they are faint!)
- One line means negative (although if you only see one line and it is NOT the control line, the test is inconclusive, and you need to take another).
- A digital test will simply say “pregnant” or “not pregnant.”
Check for an evaporation line if you’re using a dye-based test.
An evaporation line can sometimes occur as a false positive in a non-digital test. This happens when the urine dries beyond the reaction time of the test. An evaporation line will appear gray and faint. However, a true positive result will show colored lines.
Take another test if you’re unsure about your results.
Wait a few days and take another test. If you’re truly pregnant, your hormone levels are rising and will give you a clearer result.
We provide free pregnancy testing here at The Pregnancy Network. Make an appointment to get your free pregnancy test and ultrasound. You can discuss your pregnancy confidentially with one of our licensed registered nurses and hear information about your options. You’ve got this, and we’re here for you.