PREGNANCY TEST:

WHAT IS A PREGNANCY TEST?

A sample of a woman’s urine is subjected to a test to determine whether she is pregnant.

WHY SHOULD A WOMAN HAVE A PREGNANCY TEST?

Early determination of pregnancy enables a woman to make choices regarding her reproductive options.

Knowledge of an existing pregnancy can enable a woman to manage her condition more effectively.

HOW DO (URINE) PREGNANCY TESTS WORK?

1.       Once a fertilized egg  implants in the uterine lining, HCG (pregnancy hormones) is produced. HCG can be detected in blood and urine samples.

2.       A urine sample is taken and a test strip is submerged in the urine according to the relevant supplier’s instructions.

3.       Urine pregnancy tests detect HCG and will indicate a positive result when the HCG level in a sample reaches a certain threshold or sensitivity level.

4.       A pregnancy test should not be done just after having unprotected sex since it can give a false negative result. It is advisable to do a urine pregnancy test a few days after the first missed menstruation. 

5.       If the urine pregnancy test is done and the result is inconclusive, a blood test can be done to confirm the results.

ADVANTAGES:

• It is a quick procedure.
• It is cheap.
• If done by a trained health care professional the test can be over 95% accurate.
• Early detection of a pregnancy can facilitate early management of the pregnancy.

AREAS OF CONCERN:

• Failure to strictly adhere to supplier’s instructions can lead to incorrect test results.
• If a test is administered too early in the pregnancy a false negative result can occur.

WHO SHOULD HAVE A PREGNANCY TEST?

Any sexually active woman who misses a period.

Pregnancy Tests are available at all centres.

For further information or to make a confidential booking please call our

Toll Free Number: 0800 11 77 85