What precautions should I take before taking a pregnancy test?
Before taking a pregnancy test, here are a few precautions to take to obtain a reliable result:
- Choose the right moment: wait at least one day after the end of your period before taking the test. Pregnancy tests detect the presence of the hormone hCG, which increases progressively after fertilisation. If you take the test too early, the level of hCG may still be too low to be detected.
- Use the test correctly: follow the instructions supplied with the pregnancy test carefully. The steps vary depending on the type of test, whether it's a urine test strip, a urine test cassette or a digital test. Errors in use can lead to incorrect results.
- Test with morning urine: morning urine is preferable for testing as it is generally more concentrated and contains higher levels of hCG.
- Check the expiry date: make sure the pregnancy test has not expired. An expired test may give incorrect results.
- Storage: store the pregnancy test in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and moisture. Inappropriate storage may affect the efficiency of the test.
- Interpret the results correctly: read the instructions carefully to interpret the results. Some tests may require you to wait a while before reading the results, while others may require a quick read.
- Follow up: if you get a negative result but your period still hasn't arrived, wait a few days and do another test. HCG levels rise rapidly in early pregnancy, and a subsequent test may give a different result.
Don't forget that no pregnancy test is 100% accurate, and results can be influenced by various factors. If in doubt, it's always best to consult a health professional.