If you think you may be pregnant but don't want to wait until your doctors appointment to find out if you are or are not pregnant then a home pregnancy test just might be perfect for you. There are several different brands of home pregnancy tests on the market but there are basically two different types of tests available. Both of these tests measure the pregnancy hormone HCG (human chorionic gonadotropin) that is found in a woman's urine during pregnancy.
The most common type of pregnancy test that is used at home is the test stick method. You hold the stick under your urine stream and the stick will change colour if you are pregnant. There are also some digital test sticks that make it very easy by showing "pregnant" or "not pregnant" when the stick is held under the urine stream. The second type of test uses a collection cup for urine instead of the stick that is held under the urine flow. These tests basically work the same though, changing colour if HCG is found in the urine.
There are some important facts to remember when taking home pregnancy tests. Both of these types of tests work the best if the test is taken the first time you urinate in the morning. At this time your urine is more highly concentrated then during the course of the day when it is diluted by how much water or other beverages you are drinking. You are more likely to get a "false negative" if you don't take the test with your first morning urine. Many of these tests advertise that they can show a positive pregnancy result on the first day that you have missed your period. This may be true but you are more likely to get the correct answer if you wait until a week after you have missed your period. Again, if you take the test too soon it may show a negative result when in fact you are pregnant. One more important thing to check is the expiration date; don't use an expired test.
These tests, if used properly, show a high accuracy rate and are affordable. Each kit usually comes with two tests and are very cost effective. Most women find these tests to be a helpful start to the beginning of their pregnancy journey.