Description

A pregnancy test measures a hormone in the body called hCG, produced during pregnancy by the placenta and found in the blood and urine.

Testing for hCG can be done as soon as 10 days after conception to help determine if you are pregnant. Measuring hCG can also help identify complications during pregnancy.

What does the test measure?
A pregnancy test measures a hormone in the body called hCG, which is created at higher levels during pregnancy. There are two different ways hCG results are reported:

When should I get a pregnancy test?
A pregnancy test is most commonly done when you believe you may be pregnant. Testing may detect a pregnancy as soon as 10 days after conception. The accuracy of pregnancy tests usually increases if taken at least one to two weeks after a missed menstrual period.

It may also be done when there are signs and symptoms that suggest an ectopic pregnancy or a pregnancy that is failing.

Signs of an ectopic pregnancy may include:

• Abnormal vaginal bleeding
• Low back pain
• Pain in the lower abdomen or pelvic area
• Cramping on one side of the pelvis

Additional and more severe symptoms may develop if an ectopic pregnancy is not identified and treated, so it is important if you’re of childbearing age to talk with a doctor if you notice these symptoms.

Pregnancy testing may also be done as a routine test prior to some medical treatments, such as surgeries or chemotherapy, that could potentially harm a fetus.

A doctor can best determine if a pregnancy test is appropriate.