Pregnancy Blood Test
Many women confirm they are pregnant by testing themselves at home with a urine pregnancy test. While these have been accurate and helpful, it is now possible to have the more reliable pregnancy blood test in the privacy and comfort of your own home. You may want the surer confirmation provided by a blood test, or your doctor may have ordered one for various medical reasons. Whatever your reason, Speedy Sticks mobile phlebotomy service can quickly and comfortably take your blood sample and text the results directly to you as soon as they are available.
What Is a Pregnancy Blood Test?
Once you are pregnant, your body begins to undergo changes that help the cells that develop into your baby. One of these early changes, the production of a chemical known as hCG (human chorionic gonadotropin), is found only during pregnancy. Within days, the amount of hCG increases enough to be found in blood and urine tests. Although hCG can be found in urine, blood tests are more sensitive and more accurate during the earliest days of pregnancy.
When Can I Get a Blood Pregnancy Test at Home?
Both urine and blood pregnancy tests measure how much pregnancy hormone, hCG, you have in your body after the fertilized egg binds to the wall of your uterus. This process typically happens about six days after fertilization of the egg. As your pregnancy progresses, you have more hCG in your body and pregnancy tests become more reliable. Our blood pregnancy test uses technology to detect adequate hCG levels about six to eight days after ovulation for highly accurate results.
Reasons To Have a Pregnancy Blood Test
If you suspect you are pregnant but aren’t sure if it is too early to use an at-home urine pregnancy test, you may want to consider a blood test. There are several reasons you might want or need a blood pregnancy test, such as:
- To obtain peace of mind. Confirming a pregnancy can be an emotional time, especially if you’ve had difficulties getting pregnant.
- To evaluate ongoing fertility treatments. If you are receiving medical treatment for infertility, it may be beneficial to know your pregnancy status as soon as possible.
- To aid in managing potential pregnancy issues. Your doctor may have specific recommendations, such as getting a sonogram if you’ve had a miscarriage, tubal pregnancy, or ectopic pregnancy in the past.
What Does the Pregnancy Blood Test Measure?
There are two types of pregnancy blood tests. While the quantitative test measures the amount of hCG present, the qualitative test measures whether your blood contains any hCG. At Speedy Sticks, we use a qualitative pregnancy blood test that is highly accurate six to eight days after ovulation.
How Accurate Are Blood Tests for Pregnancy?
While no test is perfect, blood pregnancy tests are extremely accurate. They are generally considered to be 99% or greater in confirming pregnancy. However, testing after menopause or while taking hormone supplements can yield a false-positive test result. Likewise, testing too soon after conception can cause a false-negative result.
Preparing for the Test
You typically will not need to fast or make any other special preparations. You should inform your health care provider and phlebotomist of any medical conditions or medications you currently take. The test only requires a few minutes, and you can return to your normal activities without any special precautions.
What Else Do I Need To Know?
*This content is for informational purposes only and is not meant to replace consulting with a healthcare professional. Please consult with your primary care physician or healthcare provider before engaging in any services offered by Speedy Sticks.