How to use a rapid pregnancy test - a detailed guide. Defective test and non-compliance with the instructions for use. How the test determines pregnancy

Pharmacies now offer huge selection various express tests to determine pregnancy, they have high sensitivity and good reliability of the result. It is thanks to such a variety of assortment that any woman can choose a product by price, type, version or manufacturer. However, the electronic pregnancy test is considered the most popular and accurate, let's figure out what its advantages are.

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If a woman has doubts about a possible pregnancy, her first desire is to dispel or confirm them. The most simple and fast way, which will help in this situation - a rapid test for possible pregnancy. With the help of this device, you can find out at home, without visiting the clinic, whether conception has occurred.

There are the following types of products:

  1. The easiest way to determine if you are pregnant or not is to use a special test strip. Early in the morning, just getting out of bed, you should urinate into a special container or any other container. Then lower the product to the max mark, no more than 5 seconds. The appearance of a second strip, next to the control, indicates the presence of pregnancy.
  2. The tablet type of diagnostics has the same principle as the test strip. It is in a special plastic case, has high sensitivity and is able to determine even early pregnancy. To obtain the result, a drop of urine is applied to the first window with a pipette. After a while, information appears in the second (control) window. In case of pregnancy, the transparent reagent will be stained. The result is considered very accurate, its reliability is about 99%.
  3. Inkjet version, it is much more accurate than the previous two. Its main advantages are the possibility of its use at any time of the day or night. Already literally from the first days of the absence of menstruation, he will show correct result, which will be visible in 1 minute.
  4. An electronic pregnancy test is considered the most accurate. The result that is displayed is 99% accurate. Activation of the device begins from the moment the urine is absorbed. After a few minutes, the result appears, “minus” - no pregnancy, “plus” - confirmation of pregnancy.

Each of the described diagnostic methods indicates the presence of a “pregnancy hormone” in the woman’s body, which immediately after conception begins to be produced and, at a certain level, an express test can already diagnose it.

Features of digital testing

Electronic pregnancy tests are a small plastic case with a screen on it. Their price is an order of magnitude higher than conventional test strips, which simply answer “yes” or “no”, however, there are much more advantages.

TO positive moments Applications include:

  • Good information content, since a pregnancy test before a monthly delay of 4-5 days is already able to give a result. If it is positive, it is possible to determine estimated time the onset of conception (up to a few days). This feature of the control test is great for women who have problems with their menstrual cycle, such as irregular start dates and duration of menstruation.
  • Testing will help determine optimal time for possible fertilization.
  • The advantages include the fact that an electronic pregnancy test can be used in any conditions. It is compact, well protected and has a beautiful design.
  • The accuracy of the results is maintained from 5 minutes to 24 hours. This is very convenient compared to other diagnostic methods that are used at home (for example, strips may change color as they dry).

The use of this express study allows women to make diagnostics at home with an accuracy that will not be inferior to the laboratory. The most important thing is to correctly evaluate the result. Sometimes women are embarrassed by the too intense color of the test strip. Often the applied reagent is taken as a positive result.

The main disadvantage of digital testing is its high price. However, due to the accuracy and reliability of the results, it is quite popular among women.

Reusable Tests

All rapid tests are highly sensitive products of high accuracy. But unfortunately, most of them can only be applied once. The latest developments have allowed women to diagnose using reusable tests.

Today, most women choose the Clearblue electronic pregnancy test, the principle of which is practically no different from the inkjet diagnostic option. It has a wide tip and a special handle, which will make it easier for you to take the material, as well as ensure sterility and hygiene.

Clearblue - reusable pregnancy tests. The device has 2 windows. One is the control one, where a strip appears if the study is carried out correctly, the result is displayed in the other.

You have to literally bring the receiving end of the electronic device under the stream of urine for 3-5 seconds. The display will show hourglass, they will give a countdown. After 3 minutes, either “+” will be displayed on the screen, which will indicate the onset of fertilization, or “-” - its absence.

Electronic pregnancy test, reusable - the latest digital development, equipped with a special drive with a disposable removable cartridge. It is necessary to place material for diagnostics on it (in our case, urine). The set consists of 20 cartridges, i.e. 20 possible diagnostics.

This device (using a USB cable) can be connected to a computer or tablet to analyze the data in more detail and see the result. A multi-use pregnancy test allows you to determine the expected date of birth of your crumbs. With a negative result, it can be used to find out the most favorable day for conception and fertilization.

Factors affecting the result

In certain cases, an electronic pregnancy test may show false result, but this does not mean that it is not suitable or broken.

There are a number certain reasons that affect the interpretation, namely:

  • Reception hormonal drugs containing chorionic gonadotropin.
  • Oncological diseases (hormone-producing tumors).
  • Ovarian cyst, ectopic insemination or menopause.

The inscription “pregnant” appeared on the display - this is wonderful, you can congratulate your spouse and go for a consultation with your obstetrician-gynecologist.

When “not pregnant” is displayed on the screen, you should not immediately be upset, perhaps the diagnosis was carried out early. Wait until your expected period and test again.

If there is already a delay, use a reusable pregnancy test again, preferably after 1-2 days. In case of a repeated negative result, a gynecologist should be consulted.

Some passionately dream of a child, while others realize with horror that an accidental mistake in the form of unprotected intercourse can radically change their life. Can help clear your doubts pregnancy test for early dates. The principle of operation for all products presented on pharmacy shelves is almost the same: they allow you to find out even before visiting a doctor whether conception has occurred or not. However, in order for the results to be correct, it is worth knowing the principle of operation of the product and how to properly carry it out.

Read in this article

How the test determines pregnancy

The best early pregnancy tests possess hypersensitivity. Manufacturers use quality materials, so products cannot be too cheap.

The main principle of action: due to the content on the strip of a unique substance that will interact with urine, the level of the hCG hormone is set. If conception has taken place, then the production of human chorionic gonadotropin increases even before the delay, which gives rise to the manifestation of two stripes.

It is worth noting that the results will be correct starting from 7-10 days after sex and provided that it coincides with the time of ovulation. After all, it is then that the fertilized egg is attached to the wall of the uterus. HCG, on the other hand, begins to increase from this moment, increasing gradually every two days. Doctors also note that maximum concentration The hormone is noted on the 8-10th day, after which its level will decrease slightly. If a woman has multiple pregnancy, then hCG will increase in proportion to the number of fetuses. It is worth noting that if there are problems (ectopic fixation of the fetus, the threat of disruption), the hormone will be lowered.

How and when to take the test to get an accurate result

Previously, an early pregnancy test performed exclusively with morning urine. Reliable data could be obtained without leaving home. Currently actively selling most early test for pregnancy , which is called jet. It allows you to conduct research at any time of the day.

And yet, doctors recommend not to rush to find out the result, but to wait for menstruation. If the delay is more than three days, do an analysis. If you still have doubts, then how to detect early pregnancy the gynecologist knows for sure. He will hold and by state, secretions, as well as using additional tests will accurately establish whether the long-awaited event has happened or not.

Can the test show incorrect data?

Sometimes it happens that a girl has everything but the test is negative . Usually this is faced by those who really want to find out as soon as possible what they wear under the heart of a child. From the first days of the delay, or even immediately after sex, they begin to feel all the main symptoms: the nipples became very sensitive, increased, and vomiting began in the morning. If these symptoms arose separately, then it is too early to talk about conception. For example, nausea and vomiting may indicate problems with the gastrointestinal tract. As for the delay, it also occurs due to inflammation of the appendages.

The test is negative, but there is confidence in conception

If you are sure that negative pregnancy test - nothing more than a mistake, visit a gynecologist. The doctor will be able to accurately determine whether it was possible to conceive a child. At a very early date for an accurate diagnosis of the condition will be assigned Ultrasound to determine pregnancy and urinalysis for hCG levels. They usually guess about their interesting position even earlier than all the methods of diagnosing a woman who is not the first pregnancy confirm this.


If you're thinking Why is the test not showing? the long-awaited two are flat, then either you spent it very early, incorrectly, or it is overdue or of poor quality, or while you are wishful thinking. Erroneous readings can also be if a woman has an irregular cycle, and she wants to see the result much earlier than the embryo has managed to gain a foothold. Recommended for irregular cycle use the express method only after delaying menstruation for more than a week.

Unfortunately, there are more unpleasant reasons, because of which pregnancy test before delay and after it will stubbornly show negative result even though it was possible to conceive. The following can affect the inaccuracy of the indicator of the hCG hormone:

It is also possible to change the accuracy of the diagnosis if diuretics were taken before the test, a lot of liquid was drunk. Wait a few days and check again. Or visit a gynecologist right away to get a 100% accurate answer about your condition.

False positive test

Although the manufacturers claim that early pregnancy test accuracy is 99%, sometimes it turns out to be false positive. Such a situation occurs different reasons, the main of which is a violation of the amount of the hCG hormone under the influence of certain factors. These include:

  • oncological diseases;
  • state of the body after spontaneous abortion or miscarriage;
  • when taking drugs used to treat infertility;
  • others.

In the presence of oncological formations, even in men, a test showing early pregnancy will be positive! If you are sure that the baby could not have been conceived this month, first eliminate all factors that give a false result, and then re-examine or consult a doctor.

Weak positive test

It happens that express early pregnancy test will show one clear and second blurry stripes. This can happen if the product was not stored correctly (for example, it was not in protective packaging) or if it has expired. It is also possible to consider the situation when the test is positive, but there are no signs of pregnancy as a sign of conception. However, it has not yet been identified precisely, since too little time has passed.

How to conduct an express examination


The reliability of the results will also be affected by external factors. To know for sure whether it is time to prepare to become a mother, you need to take the following steps:

  1. Inspect the packaging for damage.
  2. Check the expiration date of the product.
  3. Prepare a clean vessel and create as close to sterile conditions as possible.
  4. It is better to use morning urine, but if you have not had your period for a long time, then any time of the day will do.
  5. Wash and dry hands before testing.
  6. Remove the test strip and dip to the indicated level.
  7. Place it on a dry towel or napkin.
  8. The result can be seen in one to three minutes.

Types of tests, their pros and cons

In a pharmacy, it is not difficult to get lost among the proposed product options. For clarity, all positive and negative points from the use of various tests are collected in a table:

Type of test Positive characteristics Cons of application
Test strips (strip tests) - cloth or paper products, the surface of which is impregnated with a reagent
  • easy to use;
  • cheap and affordable (you can buy them even in a stall);
  • 3-5 minutes - and the result is ready.
  • weak sensitivity, therefore it is recommended to use only morning urine;
  • inconvenience due to the need to use the container;
  • there is a high probability of an erroneous result if the time the strip is in the urine is violated;
  • if the test is made of paper, then the probability of getting incorrect results is much higher.
Tablet tests are plastic boxes that contain test strips. Using the pipette supplied with the kit, a drop of urine is applied to one window, and the result is displayed in the second.
  • very sensitive;
  • the probability of determining pregnancy is high;
  • modern;
  • aesthetically more attractive than a test strip;
  • no need to immerse in urine
  • relatively expensive;
  • urine will still have to be collected in a container, so that after picking it up with a pipette
Inkjet tests are modern products that look like a pen for writing. It is based on a complex device with a fibrous rod, which is formed from tubules (liquid rises through them to the part with reagents).
  • will give the earliest and most accurate answer;
  • can be carried out at any time of the day or night;
  • it is not required to lower it into a container, it is substituted under a stream of urine;
  • just a minute and exact result ready.
  • high cost.
Electronic tests - an analogue of conventional strip strips
  • accurate and fast results;
  • the device itself will show readiness for analysis (the hourglass will light up before use);
  • a weakly positive answer will not work - either a clear yes or no;
  • comfortable;
  • reliable;
  • easy to use;
  • retains the result throughout the day after use;
  • option misuse virtually excluded
  • Expensive;
  • disposable;
  • as the manufacturer himself warns, if the analysis was made before the expected date of the onset of menstruation and was negative, then it is recommended to repeat it on the first day of the menstrual cycle.

When choosing among the entire assortment in a pharmacy, you should not stop at the cheapest option. The probability of obtaining an accurate result with such a product is low, since manufacturers save on important reagents. If the test showed two strips, but there are no other signs and conception is unlikely, this is a reason to consult a doctor and undergo an examination. Indeed, in such a situation, pregnancy with pathologies is possible, serious illness that pose a threat to the health of mother and child.

A modern woman, unlike her predecessors, has every opportunity to refute or, conversely, confirm her presence at the first suspicion of pregnancy - with a delay in menstruation, mood changes and other signs that may indirectly indicate an “interesting situation”. Everything - thanks to special express tests, which a woman, if necessary, can carry out at home, only by purchasing everything necessary for "testing" in a pharmacy. It is unlikely that today there are ladies who have not heard (or even used) such devices at least once in their lives. Indeed, an express pregnancy test is convenient to use, its effectiveness is very high (from 92% to 99%), and no special arrangements for its implementation from a woman is not required. Is that the purchase of the actual test.

An express pregnancy test provides a result like a litmus test - changing color under the influence of human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG). Chorionic gonadotropin is a special hormone, which in the normal state in the body of a woman is present in extremely small quantities. But after the fertilization of the egg and implantation of the embryo into the uterus, it begins to be intensively produced by the villi of the chorion, and then by the placenta. Thus, it is constantly increasing, and just its increase becomes decisive for a positive pregnancy test.

In order to resolve the first doubts about pregnancy, today women have the opportunity to use one of the express tests developed by modern medical experts. Such devices are different - from the most simple tests strips, before electronic tests. Whatever method of "diagnosis" is chosen, it is advisable to do a rapid pregnancy test on the 3-5th day of a delay in menstruation. So, chorionic gonadotropin begins to be intensively produced only after the embryo is attached to the wall of the uterus - approximately 6-8 days after fertilization. And a positive test result, depending on its type, is able to show even after the first week of pregnancy.

However, much depends on compliance with all the rules for conducting the test, from individual characteristics hCG production, on the quality of the test. It happens that the result after using an express pregnancy test is “not obvious”: the strips are either blurry, or poorly colored, or the color has not changed at all. In order to confirm the result, you will have to repeat the test the next day. And, in case of a positive answer, with a calm mind go to a gynecologist for a consultation.

Which express pregnancy test to choose? It all depends on the preferences and financial capabilities of the woman. Almost every rapid pregnancy test will in any case become effective method early diagnosis pregnancy. They differ only in price, and even in ease of use.

The simplest rapid pregnancy test is, of course, a test strip. It looks like a thin strip with a special reagent applied. To perform the test, it is necessary to collect a portion of morning urine (the concentration of chorionic gonadotropin is higher in it), lower the strip into it and hold it there for a short time. The result will appear within literally 2-5 minutes after the test.

There is also a tablet, or cassette, express pregnancy test. Its principle of operation is the same as the previous one, only it is “packed” in a special tablet and such a test does not require a whole portion of urine - literally a drop is enough. It is applied to a special window, in the second the result is shown.

It differs in that it can be carried out at any time and anywhere, while it provides very, very high efficiency. Application principle jet dough very simple - just substitute it under a stream of urine, and then "familiarize yourself with the result."

The latest developments include an electronic pregnancy test. And it costs, accordingly, not much more expensive. And all because the result during such a test is displayed on a special screen: either a digital designation in the form of a plus or minus, or even an appropriate inscription (pregnant / not pregnant).

Especially for- Tatyana Argamakova

Express pregnancy test is a diagnostic system early pregnancy which allows you to carry out the procedure at home. Rapid test is the generic name for all pregnancy tests that exist on this moment time. Thanks to these devices, a woman can find out about the onset of conception without visiting a doctor's office. If earlier it was possible to determine pregnancy only starting from the first day of a missed period, then the new generation rapid tests make it possible to do this much earlier.

To date, there are many varieties of rapid tests. All of them differ in the way they work, in price and in the set of functions. Therefore, to do right choice, you need to navigate the main characteristics of the product.

The principle of operation of the express test

All rapid pregnancy tests are based on single mechanism actions, they detect a specific hormone in the urine. This hormone is called human chorionic gonadotropin or hCG. It begins to be produced in a woman's body at an accelerated pace from the moment when the villi of the growing placenta are implanted in the wall of the uterus, that is, after the embryo is fixed. From now on, hCG level is constantly increasing, but early stages development of pregnancy, it can be determined only in venous blood.

Modern rapid tests can detect hCG in the urine, starting from 10-12 days from the moment of conception.

This largely depends on the sensitivity level of the device that was selected for diagnostics:

    Tests with a sensitivity of 25 mIU/ml can detect pregnancy from the first day of a missed period.

    Tests with a sensitivity of 15 mIU / ml can detect pregnancy 1-2 days before the date of the expected period.

    Ultra sensitive tests with susceptibility to hCG at 10 mIU / ml can detect pregnancy 4 days before the date of the expected menstruation.

The principle of operation of rapid tests is based on the interaction of a special reagent with hCG hormone. In each of these devices, a special substance is applied in a special way - antibodies to hCG. When interacting with urine, which contains chorionic gonadotropin, the test gives a reaction. Depending on the type of device, stripes may appear on it, or the result may be displayed with signs, letters, etc. If there is no or too little hCG in the woman’s urine, then the test will be negative.

Instructions for using rapid pregnancy tests

    The test is best purchased at a pharmacy. This is the only way to be sure that the conditions for its storage have been met in full.

    At the time of purchase, it is important to familiarize yourself with the expiration date of the test. An overdue test may simply not work, or it may not reliable result.

    The integrity of the packaging with the dough must not be compromised.

    It is unacceptable to use the same test 2 times (subject to the purchase of a one-time express test).

    It is better if the morning portion of urine is used for diagnosis.

    You need to open the test only before using it.

    Before collecting urine or urinating directly on the test, it is advisable to wash yourself well and dry yourself with a towel.

    If the procedure involves the preliminary collection of urine, then for this you need to choose a clean and dry container. It can be glass or plastic.

    Before using the test, you must carefully read the instructions. You should not leave her.

When is the best time to do a rapid pregnancy test?

If you refer to the instructions for the use of express tests, then the manufacturers do not indicate in them when it is best to carry out the procedure. However, gynecologists give an unambiguous recommendation in this regard - for research it is necessary to take the first portion of morning urine. This is especially true when the study is carried out at an early stage of pregnancy.

The fact is that the likelihood of an error increases when collecting urine in the daytime or in the evening. During the day, urine becomes less concentrated due to the consumption of water and other drinks. Accordingly, the level of hCG decreases in it, which may adversely affect the reliability of the results.

Pros and cons of various rapid pregnancy tests

There are several options for rapid pregnancy tests on the market. All of them have some differences in terms of their methodology:

or test strips. Strip tests are the cheapest device among the entire range of rapid pregnancy tests, due to which they have the highest popularity among the female population. Such devices are presented paper strip, which is located on a plastic substrate. This paper has impregnation zones that become visible. If there is a pregnancy, then two vertical stripes will appear, and if there is no pregnancy, then one vertical stripe will appear.

For testing, you will need a clean container where urine is collected. Then a strip is lowered into it (up to a certain level), and it is kept in the liquid for about 10 seconds. After this time, the test is laid out on a dry and even surface. After another 3-5 minutes, it will be possible to evaluate the result.

Strip tests usually give a reliable result if done on the first day.

If we consider the disadvantages of such tests, then among them we can single out the not very comfortable use of strip tests and relatively high risk the occurrence of errors.

Tablet or cassette tests. These tests are flat plastic boxes with small windows. One window is a urinal, where a few drops of urine are introduced using a pipette. The result appears in the second window. Such devices are not very expensive in price, but they give a more accurate result compared to test strips.

Considering the shortcomings tablet tests, then among them we can distinguish the complexity of the procedure and the inability to find out the result a few days before the onset of menstruation.

Jet tests. Inkjet rapid tests are elongated devices. It is very easy to use these devices. To carry out the procedure, it is enough to bring the test under the stream of urine for a few seconds. After 3-5 minutes, the device will give the result.

Inkjet tests allow you to conduct a study a few days before the start of the expected menstruation. In addition, they are very comfortable to use.

As for the cost of such devices, it is determined by the complexity of their internal structure. If the inkjet tests are equipped with a digital screen and a USB port, then the price will be higher.

Electronic or digital tests. These devices are state of the art. Using them is very simple: their tip must be placed in the urine. To do this, you can either simply substitute it under the jet during urination, or draw liquid into a container and lower the device there. The exposure time of urine to the test is 3-5 seconds. Then it is laid out on a dry and even surface, and after another 3-5 minutes the result is evaluated. He appears in the window.

One of the advantages of such a device is that it can show pregnancy a few days before the expected period. In addition, you can purchase reusable digital tests, as well as tests with a USB port. However, the price for them will be an order of magnitude more expensive than for classic test strips.


Although rapid tests are fairly reliable means of determining pregnancy, however, they can be wrong.

    Firstly, the level of human chorionic gonadotropin in the body of each woman rises in different ways.

    Secondly, the test can give a negative result due to endocrine dysfunction in women, as well as the threat of miscarriage.

    Thirdly, a false negative result can be obtained if the study is performed too early. This is especially common in women with an unstable menstrual schedule.

    The fourth reason why the test gives an incorrect result or does not work at all is a violation of the rules for performing the testing procedure, or a marriage of the device itself.

A woman should take into account that rapid tests can give not only false negatives, but also false positive results.

Possible reasons similar errors:

    The woman recently gave birth (no more than 2 months ago);

    The woman has disorders in the work of the ovaries;

    The woman had a miscarriage or abortion (about 30 days ago);

    A woman develops a hormone-producing tumor;

    The woman is taking medications containing hCG, or took them less than 2 weeks ago;

    An expired test was used.

There are cases when even after the onset of pregnancy, menstruation continues. Therefore, if a woman has doubts about this, a rapid test can be done even during menstruation. On determination of hCG menstrual blood cannot affect in any way. Therefore, if there is a pregnancy, the test will give a positive result.

Women ask a lot of questions about ectopic pregnancy and diagnostic results. As you know, in this case, the embryo located in the fetal egg is attached not to the wall of the uterus, but to the fallopian tube. Chorionic gonadotropin is produced during an ectopic pregnancy, but its level rises extremely slowly, or even stands still. Most likely, the rapid test will still give a positive result. However, the stripes may be blurry or very pale. In the early stages of an ectopic pregnancy, the test will be negative.

Sometimes there are also such pathologies of pregnancy as a frozen embryo. In this case, rapid tests first give a positive result, then it becomes doubtful, and then completely negative. In this case, you can not hesitate to contact a specialist.

So, the use of rapid tests makes it possible to determine pregnancy in the early stages of its development, without even leaving home. Thanks to a wide range rapid tests, each woman will be able to choose the best option for herself.


Education: Diploma "Obstetrics and Gynecology" received at the Russian State Medical University of the Federal Agency for Health and social development(2010). In 2013, she completed her postgraduate studies at the NMU. N. I. Pirogov.

Thanks to the fact that at one time were invented tests for early definition pregnancy , a woman can get a positive result long before the gynecologist confirms the happy news. You can be sure that you are pregnant already in the first weeks after conception. If you use the test correctly, you can get the most accurate result.

But for this you need to know exactly how to do the test, which one to buy, when to conduct it and when you can find out about pregnancy. All the features of express pregnancy diagnostics, as well as how to choose best test which one is better to use certain period and how to understand the result is described in this article.

How does it work?

The mechanism of all pregnancy tests is the same: they determine whether a woman's urine contains human chorionic gonadotropin hormone(hcg) , which begins to be produced in the body after attachment in the uterus of the embryo. That is, during the test, the result appears when hCG appears in the urine of a woman after conception.

Positive result "two stripes" in the photo

Women are always interested in when the exact result of the test will show. It should be noted that the amount of hCG after conception increases every day, but immediately after fertilization, only specialists can determine that a woman has managed to get pregnant by conducting special study venous blood. In this way, you can get a positive result five days earlier than 2 strips show any of the tests. Sometimes in the first days after conception, the 2nd strip is barely visible - it depends on the level of sensitivity.

For most rapid tests, the sensitivity level starts at 25 mUI hCG. Sensitivity on some is indicated by 10 mUI hCG, but there is no evidence for this. According to many pharmacists, such sensitive tests are only advertising ploy. Also, advertising moves can be considered that the express test allegedly has the most high probability determination of pregnancy even before the delay with an accuracy of 99%. Moreover, their price is quite high.

How to conduct?

When to do a pregnancy test, each woman determines for herself. But at the same time, it is important to know when you can take a pregnancy test so that it correctly shows the exact result. The answer to the question of when it is better to take a pregnancy test after conception depends on whether it is regular or not. menstrual cycle at a woman. The corresponding number of days is counted after ovulation , so it depends on when you need to do the test.

After a delay

If you need to determine if there is a pregnancy after a delay, then on which day to do the test, it does not matter, since from the first day of the delay you can diagnose the presence of hCG in the urine. In any case, test manufacturers, answering the question of how long it takes to do a pregnancy test, say exactly that. But in fact, experts say that pregnancy should be determined a week after the delay, that is, after the expected day of the onset of menstruation. At what delay the test determines pregnancy accurately, it also depends on the level of its sensitivity.

Until the delay

However, many women still rush to take a pregnancy test before the delay, choosing highly sensitive samples that have good reviews. However, it should be noted that even the most sensitive test before the delay may not always show the correct result. After all, it is important to correctly determine when testing can be done before the delay, so that even before the delay in menstruation, the reliability of the result is high.

For example, if a woman has a regular cycle and is 28 days, then if the procedure is done on the 23rd day of the cycle, even a sensitive jet will not determine pregnancy before the delay, since there will not be a sufficient level of hCG in the blood. Whether pregnancy will show before the delay on the 26th day of the cycle also depends on the day of fertilization and the duration of the cycle, etc.

With a regular menstrual cycle

It is with her that the reaction occurs when the pregnancy test shows. That is, when a pregnancy test shows a result, this is due to the fact that the hormone contained in the woman's urine reacts to the impregnation of the strip. As a result, a second strip quickly appears on the test.

Instruction

The test is easy to do: you need to take a clean container, collect some urine in it. The strip is lowered into the urine with the tip up to the mark indicated on it, and held for 10 seconds. Gotta drop the line right side. Evaluation of the result - for 1 to 10 minutes. Whether the second strip will show in the first minute depends on the level of hCG: the lower it is, the later the second strip appears.

What day does it show?

From the first day of delay.

pros

Inexpensive.

Minuses

It is not very convenient to use, it may be wrong, it will not show until the delay.

Modern strip tests

  • Evitest №1
  • FRAUTEST Express
  • Eve (can determine from 1 day delay)
  • secret
  • bbtest
  • Femitest Practice
  • Femitest Practic Ultra
  • Itest Plus

tablet test

Produced in a special box with two holes-windows.

Tablet (cassette) - Evitest Proof

Works like a strip test. Also included is a pipette, a container for collecting urine.

Instruction

The first step is to drip 4 drops of urine into the first window. After 1-10 min. in the second, 1 or 2 stripes appear.

What day does it show?

From the first day of delay.

Positive

Inexpensive, the result is easy to determine.

Negative

You need to do a lot of things to do.

Modern tablet tests

  • Evitest Proof
  • LadyTest-C
  • Frautest Expert
  • Sezam
  • clear blue
  • KnowNow Optima
  • Femitest Handy

Inkjet test

The name already defines the principle of action: you can make it by placing it under a stream of urine.

Inkjet test method - Frautest Exclusive

It is important that those who use Frautest instructions for use were followed exactly. Although the sensitivity frautesta and others of the same type are very high, Frautest Exclusive may show a negative result if it has been used incorrectly.

Instruction

It should be placed with a tip with a filter under a stream of urine or in a container with it for 10 seconds. After that, 1 or 2 strips appear in a special hole in 1-10 minutes.

Accuracy

Can determine hCG in the urine as early as 5 days before the delay. When asked if the test can not show pregnancy if conception has occurred, the answer is no. An inkjet test will show pregnancy before the delay, as well as in the first days of the delay.

Positive

Convenient application, accuracy.

Negative

The price of an inkjet pregnancy test is high.

Modern inkjet tests

  • Frautest Comfort
  • Evitest Perfect
  • Frautest Exclusive
  • Femitest Jet Ultra
  • clear blue
  • clear view
  • Duet

Electronic test

He is also called digital test for pregnancy.

Electronic verification method - Clearblue

Reviews of experts indicate that this is the most modern express test.

Instruction

It is necessary to lower the test with the end with the filter into the urine, hold until it is saturated. You can evaluate in three minutes. If the result is positive, the word " pregnancy” or the “+” sign.

Accuracy

Shows pregnancy 4 days before the delay. Due to its high accuracy, it shows a 99% correct result 2 days before the date of menstruation.

Positive

If we evaluate the sensitivity of pregnancy tests, then it is the electronic one that is the test with the highest sensitivity. There is no need to ask what are the most sensitive electronic tests, as they all have high sensitivity.

Negative

Price electronic test very high for pregnancy. How much such a test costs depends on the manufacturer, but on average the cost is about 400 rubles.

Pregnancy test clear blue (the so-called "blue" test), despite high cost, is very much in demand. If electronic clear blue, the instruction is observed, then the result will be as accurate as possible. However, this pregnancy test, the instructions for use of which indicates that the resulting inscription on Clea Blue disappears after a while, the woman will not be able to leave as the first evidence of pregnancy. Nevertheless, Clearblue is now popular.

Reusable digital tests

The latest invention usb plug test , which can be connected to a computer and see the result.

The kit includes 20 cartridges treated with a reagent that reacts to the presence of hCG in the urine. With the help of such a test, you can check whether conception has occurred 21 times.

Accuracy

Shows the result 4 days before the delay.

Positive

If you choose such a test, it can be used many times. Some tests can also check the gestational age. But the time of conception can be known with an accuracy of 92%.

Negative

Buying replacement cartridges is currently very difficult.

Negative pregnancy test

Relevant for many women is the question, can a test be negative during pregnancy? Whether an express test may not show pregnancy, patients often ask doctors.

Why the test does not show when pregnancy is delayed, may be due to the fact that a woman uses it too early . After all, some of the tests are not so sensitive.

In some cases, a woman who wants to get pregnant begins to check the "situation" too early, long before the expected period. For example, if you start testing on the 25th day of the cycle, then on this HCG time in the blood does not yet reach the desired level. Even if a woman has a cycle of 25 days, when you can get pregnant depends on the day of ovulation, so if the value is negative, you should check the result after a while. Which test to choose, the woman decides. But it is important to consider that a negative value is also possible if it is used incorrectly.

So the reasons negative test during pregnancy may be the following:

  • Testing too early.
  • Violations in the body of a woman.
  • Incorrect application of the test.

False positive results

The appearance of two strips in the absence of pregnancy is possible:

  • During the first two months after childbirth.
  • With the development ovarian dysfunction .
  • When hormone-producing tumor .
  • If you are using a test that has expired.

Are the results reliable if you do testing during menstruation?

Another actual question Can it be done during monthly pregnancy testing? After all, sometimes menstruation continues in a woman even after conception, so such an analysis is very relevant.

Menstrual blood does not affect testing, so how much a pregnancy test shows the result does not depend on menstruation. Be sure that even if the procedure is done using blood-stained urine, the result will not be affected. And, therefore, during pregnancy, two bright stripes will appear.

Outcomes in ectopic pregnancy

If , fertilized egg attached outside the uterus. However, the body still produces hCG. But in such case of hCG grows slowly, and sometimes - and does not exist at all. That is, the usual rapid test for ectopic pregnancy shows 2 strips. In this case, the second strip may be barely noticeable, blurry, if compared with the one that appears when normal pregnancy. It is necessary to take into account, when making a pregnancy test, on which day it will show the result in an ectopic pregnancy: the second strip appears only after the delay has occurred. What day the pregnancy test will show depends on the day of conception and the individual characteristics of the female body.

There is a special test Inexscreen , which a few weeks after the delay makes it possible to suspect that the pregnancy is ectopic. Its action is based on the determination of the modified isoform that is part of hCG. In the case of an ectopic pregnancy, this figure is much higher than the 10% that are observed with normal course pregnancy.

Results with a frozen pregnancy

positive or negative when missed pregnancy the result of testing depends on the time when it was carried out. So, if initially there were two clear stripes, later, after a few days, one strip became fuzzy, and after a few days one strip completely disappeared, you can suspect that the pregnancy has died. In this case, it is important to immediately visit a specialist who will determine how to check the result in this situation.

Whether a gynecologist can determine pregnancy before a delay in this case depends on the research methods.

What to do next if the result is doubtful?

Regardless of which day of the cycle to take the test, it can be doubtful in the end. This is often evidenced by the reviews that women write to each thematic forum.

Doubts arise if it is not clear how many strips appeared. Sometimes the second strip is not visible well, it is somehow blurry, fuzzy. This happens in the following cases:

  • A low level of hCG in the body associated with a woman's health problems.
  • A test that is no longer suitable for use (it may not work due to an expired expiration date, damage).
  • The desire to see exactly two stripes (“I’m afraid that I’m not pregnant”). Often a woman notes indirect signs- nausea, weight loss - and assures herself that she is pregnant.

What is the probability that a woman is pregnant can only be confirmed. Can a blood test for hCG be wrong - in this case the answer is negative.

But you can still repeat the testing, after a 2-3-day break - do it, for example, on the 31st day of the cycle, if menstruation usually begins on the 28th day. The second or third attempt will be successful.

Which tests "cheat" most often?

No matter how manufacturers assure that their products are almost 100% effective, some tests that we do still show unreliable results.

According to the observations of many women, the most common false negative and positive results show such tests:

  • Faith Test (its sensitivity is 25 mIU/ml);
  • Bebichek
  • Mon Ami
  • bee sure
  • rest assured

conclusions

What to do, if positive test already in front of a woman's eyes, it depends only on her. Many future mothers, even those for whom pregnancy is long-awaited and planned, do not know, seeing two stripes, what to do next. In fact, you need to calm down and rejoice. Regardless of which week the pregnancy test you choose shows, there is still a lot of time ahead. Now it is important not to be nervous, to practice healthy eating And correct image life. And also - visit a doctor to confirm the good news and get important recommendations.