How to use pregnancy test strips correctly
Pregnancy tests are usually used within the first month of pregnancy. It is a simple and effective way to easily detect pregnancy before delivery at home. Here’s how to use a pregnancy test strip correctly:
Step 1: Choose the appropriate time
The best time to test is on the seventh day after leaving for your next period. This is because your progesterone levels increase at this time. If you want to try early detection, you may want to use an early pregnancy test strip.
Step 2: Collect urine sample
Collecting urine requires the use of some techniques to determine accuracy. The best time to urinate is in the morning when you first urinate after waking up. First, clean the external genital area to avoid contaminating the sample with impurities. Then, hold the urine cup—not directly into the test paper. Be sure to read the package instructions for more precise operating instructions.
Step 3: Test urine sample
Place a test strip, usually an immersion test strip on your nipple, into your urine sample. The test strip absorbs from the urine and gradually changes color. After about 5-10 minutes, compare the test strip with the result on the packaging. If two lines appear on the test strip, you may be pregnant.
Step 4: Stay alert
Even if two lines don\’t appear on the test paper, don\’t give up. If you still don\’t have your period after a week, use the test strips again. In advance testing, the test strips do not necessarily show a positive response. It\’s best to wait until after your expected period before taking the test.
How to interpret test strip results
The accuracy of test strip results depends on whether your urine sample is contaminated or whether you follow proper sample collection and testing procedures. Here\’s what you should know about interpreting test strip results:
Single line
A line on the test paper (even if it\’s faint) indicates a negative test result and means you can\’t be pregnant. However, if this line cannot be seen, or is completely absent, then you may not have collected a sufficient volume of urine, or the sample may have arrived prematurely.
Two lines
If two lines appear on the test strip, the test result is positive and you may be pregnant. However, some early pregnancy test strips have such restrictions: a restriction similar to \”a light-colored second line must appear within seven days.\” So the fine instructions of the packer still need to be followed.
Invalid test results
If the sample becomes contaminated or the reading times out, unexpected inaccurate or invalid results may appear on the test strip. If this occurs, please do not interpret the results yourself. Retest or seek medical advice.
How to accurately predict pregnancy
Knowing you are pregnant marks the beginning of predicting hormone levels and budgeting for your pregnancy. Next, you need to use test strip test results and menstrual history and other information to predict pregnancy.
Calculate due date
According to the Last Menstrual Period (LMP) calendar, exclusionsIn 14 days, you can get the expected date of delivery. This date is not 100% accurate, but it can help you have a better understanding of which season you will be born in.
List of required items
Pregnancy usually lasts about 40 weeks and requires some preparation. The shopping list includes items for delivering the baby, such as a stroller and crib; and consumables for the baby, such as diapers and baby food.
Pay attention to doctor’s advice
Although pregnancy tests are helpful for checking pregnancy, your doctor also needs to understand your pregnancy status and provide you with consultation and relevant suggestions.
Conclusion
Using early pregnancy test strips is a very convenient and reliable way to detect pregnancy before delivery. Before using test strips, you must know the required steps to make the test results as accurate as possible. Trying to understand and interpret test results is also an important factor in planning for pregnancy and prenatal care. If the test result is positive, consult a doctor promptly and make prenatal preparations.
