Sometimes we slip up. Not often, but every so often we do the thinking with our little head versus the one on our shoulders. When that happens, unexpected things occur. Things like random babies being conceived during casual flings.
Yes, one can slip past the goalie if you’re not careful…
In fact, you’re probably going to have to use a pregnancy test at some point in your life. It happens. It can be a nerve-wracking time whether or not you’re hoping to get pregnant. What’s great is that home tests are incredibly easy to use. There are just a few tips to make sure you’re getting the most accurate results.
While they typically give you the information you need, false negatives and positives do happen. It’s best to confirm your findings with another test the following day. You’ll have a much stronger base to find out if you’re pregnant.
It’s important to keep in mind that this is a couple’s effort, not just one person as is the testing. That said, it’s important that both men and women read these pregnancy test tips to learn all they can about this often stressful testing process.
Tips For Using A Pregnancy Test
These are not in any specific order, just understand them and use them to your advantage.
Take the test after your first missed period.
The tests are going to be the most accurate about a week after you think you’ve missed your period. That doesn’t mean you have to wait, though. You can also take a test around the time you believe your period should be starting. It’s just a better idea to make sure you do a follow-up test if that’s the case.
They work by testing for the hormone hCG. It’s going to be in its highest levels right after a missed period. That’s when you want to go out and get yourself a test.
Use the first pee of the day.
Drinking will dilute the hormone. That’s why you should be using your first pee of the day. You’re obviously not taking any fluids into your system while you’re sleeping. That will ensure that the hormone is at its highest levels. It will make its detection a whole lot easier.
If you take it at the end of the day, you’re far more likely to get a false negative. You can give yourself a level of peace of mind by just doing it when you wake up. You’ll know you gave the test its best shot at working for you.
Follow the directions.
Every single test that you can buy will come with instructions. You need to read them. There are going to be specific wait times that you have to sit through. The basics are always going to be the same.
You take off the cap and pee on the stick. Then you put the cap back on and wait. You really need to wait for the specified time. There’s nothing worse than not seeing anything and simply throwing the stick away. You could be missing the positive that will come through as it sits in the trash.
See a doctor after a positive.
You need to see a doctor if you get a positive. He or she will run you through another series of tests that will give you a firm result. The home tests are great, but they should only be used as a precursor for seeing a professional.
It’s that person who will tell you once and for all what’s going on. That’s also when you’ll get all of your options to move forward. It’s also the time to start your pregnancy “care” if you’ve been trying to conceive. The doctor will make sure that you and your baby are happy and healthy. Now, if you’re not looking to have a baby, then speak with them and if you’re sexually active, have them test for STDs (especially if you live in Louisana) as well. Might as well, right!
Don’t sleep on this.
Look, if you think you’re pregnant and you’re extremely nervous, don’t be. There’s plenty that can be done to help you get through this or fix your situation. It’s not the end of the world. Sure, you’re time having the occasional fling might be temporarily on hold, but that doesn’t mean your life is over.