Waiting to take a pregnancy test when your period isn’t due for a while can feel like an eternity. You might wonder if a blood test is an option to get faster results or if a urine test is precise enough. We’ll cover the differences between these two pregnancy tests below.
While waiting, remember that Brazos Pregnancy Center in Granbury, TX, offers a safe, supportive, non-judgmental, and caring environment where you can find clear answers.
You can contact us anytime to schedule a free urine pregnancy test.
The Science of Pregnancy Tests
Both blood and urine pregnancy tests detect a hormone called human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG). This hormone starts to rise in your body shortly after a fertilized egg attaches to the lining of your uterus. As hCG increases, it becomes easier to detect with a pregnancy test.
However, before you miss your period, hCG may not have risen high enough yet to be detected. That’s why you can get negative pregnancy test results in the early stages of pregnancy.
Urine Pregnancy Tests
Urine pregnancy tests are the most common and accessible because you can buy them over the counter in many stores. They can be taken at home or in a clinic and usually provide results within minutes. These tests are 99% accurate when taken correctly after your missed period, but they only detect whether hCG is present—they don’t measure how much.
Blood Pregnancy Tests
A blood test must be done at a medical facility or lab with a blood draw. This type of testing is more sensitive than a urine test and can detect pregnancy earlier, sometimes as soon as 11 days after conception.
Blood tests also provide quantitative results, meaning they show the exact level of hCG in your body. Doctors often use them in situations involving possible miscarriage.
Some women may ask their doctor about taking a pregnancy blood test or purchase one out of pocket through a medical lab like Quest Diagnostics. However, a urine test should be sufficient and accurate in most cases.
Which Pregnancy Test Should You Pick?
Most women can confidently rely on a urine pregnancy test.
But if you think you could be pregnant and you continue to get negative results, or have vaginal bleeding or cramping after a positive pregnancy test, you may want to ask your doctor about a blood test.
At Brazos Pregnancy Center, we offer free pregnancy urine tests and a supportive place to ask questions and explore your next steps.Schedule your free appointment today. We’re here to help you determine if you’re pregnant and receive caring support.