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Home Pregnancy Test
Home pregnancy tests use a sample of a woman's urine to detect the presence of a hormone (called human chorionic gonadotropin, or hCG) that is produced during pregnancy. If the test is positive for the hormone, it usually means the woman is pregnant.
These tests are available without a prescription, and their accuracy varies. If used correctly, the best tests can detect hCG as early as the first day of a missed menstrual period (about 14 days after conception). A first morning urine sample (which has accumulated in the bladder overnight) provides the most accurate test results.
| By: | Healthwise Staff | Last Revised: May 6, 2010 |
| Medical Review: | Sarah Anne Marshall, MD - Family Medicine Adam Husney, MD - Family Medicine Kirtly Jones, MD - Obstetrics and Gynecology | |
© 1995-2011 Healthwise, Incorporated. Healthwise, Healthwise for every health decision, and the Healthwise logo are trademarks of Healthwise, Incorporated. This information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Healthwise, Incorporated disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information.
