Medically Reviewed By Experts Panel
There are several tests that can be done to determine pregnancy, depending on how far along you are and what information you’re looking for. Here are some of the most common tests:
- Urine test: A home pregnancy test or a urine test at your doctor’s clinic can detect the presence of human chorionic gonadotropin (HCG), a hormone produced during pregnancy. It appears in the blood and urine of pregnant women as early as 10 days after conception. Best time to take the test is after the date of your missed period.
- Blood test – Blood tests can tell if you are pregnant about six to eight days after you ovulate. It can detect HCG and can provide more detailed information about your pregnancy. These blood tests are slightly more sensitive than urine tests because they can detect very small levels of HCG. They can provide a more accurate answer very early on in pregnancy — within seven to 10 days after conception.
- Ultrasound – An ultrasound uses high-frequency sound waves to create images of your uterus and developing foetus. This can help confirm a pregnancy, determine the gestational age. Can be done anytime after 6 weeks.
- Pelvic exam – Your doctor may perform a pelvic exam to check the size and shape of your uterus and to look for any signs of pregnancy or potential problems. A doctor can detect pregnancy with a pelvic exam, if the pregnancy is six or more weeks old. A pelvic exam involves physical examination of your reproductive organs like the ovaries, cervix, fallopian tubes, uterus, rectum and bladder.
If you suspect you may be pregnant, it’s important to take a pregnancy test or seek medical advice to confirm and manage your pregnancy appropriately.
