If you suspect you are pregnant, you may be dreading the results of a pregnancy test and are putting off finding out.
The reality, though, is that pregnancy testing supplies an initial result and directs your next steps, providing you with the clarity you need.
Continue reading to learn more about pregnancy testing and the steps you should take if you receive a positive test. You can also schedule an appointment with us for free, lab-quality pregnancy testing.
The First Step in Confirming a Pregnancy
For most women, the first step they take after suspecting they are pregnant is an at-home pregnancy test.
These over-the-counter tests are typically very accurate and work by measuring the amount of hCG (human chorionic gonadotropin) in your urine. This hormone becomes detectable after a pregnancy implants in your uterus and begins to grow.
Keep in mind that on rare occasions, it is possible to get a false positive from an at-home pregnancy test, which is why it’s often best to confirm your pregnancy with a lab-quality test at your doctor’s office or pregnancy center.
Next Steps After a Positive Pregnancy Test
After a positive pregnancy test, it is usually recommended to get a follow-up ultrasound scan as soon as possible.
An ultrasound can not only give you important details you need to know as you weigh your options—like the gestational age of your pregnancy—but also can detect whether there are complications that could harm your health.
These complications can include things like an ectopic pregnancy or a pregnancy that is not viable.
Ectopic pregnancy happens when a fertilized egg implants somewhere other than your uterus, like an ovary or fallopian tube. It is a dangerous health complication that requires immediate medical intervention to protect your health.
An ultrasound will also determine if your pregnancy is viable (is developing and has a heartbeat). The Mayo Clinic estimates that 10-20% of pregnancies end in a miscarriage.
If an ultrasound reveals you have miscarried, your doctor will likely want to monitor your health while your body passes the pregnancy.
Getting the Facts You Need
If you suspect you are pregnant, or already have a positive result from an at-home pregnancy test, we are here to help.
Our trained team at New Beginnings Pregnancy Center can provide free pregnancy confirmation with our lab-quality pregnancy tests and a no-cost follow-up ultrasound scan.
Confirming your pregnancy and gathering the necessary information can empower you to take charge and make the best decision for your health and future.
Contact us today to schedule your free and confidential appointment.