If you’re reading this, you might be worried about the possibility of an unexpected pregnancy. Whether your birth control didn’t work, you’re feeling different, or you’ve noticed some common symptoms, it’s natural to want answers and clarity in this situation.

Verifying a pregnancy starts with testing, and understanding the difference between a blood test and a urine test can help you choose. Both detect the presence of human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG), a hormone produced during pregnancy.

Let’s explore the differences between blood and urine pregnancy tests.

What’s the Difference Between Blood and Urine Tests?

Pregnancy tests come in two types: urine tests and blood tests. Both work by detecting hCG in your body, a hormone your body produces after a fertilized egg implants in your uterus.

In early pregnancy, hCG levels are initially low but increase rapidly. This is why timing plays a key role in the accuracy of your test.

  • Blood tests can detect hCG earlier, often before you miss a period, as they measure even low levels of the hormone.
  • Urine tests are generally most accurate after the first day of a missed period when hCG levels are higher and easier to detect.

What Type Should I Take?

Blood tests are ideal if you want to detect a pregnancy very early, but they require a visit to a doctor’s office, are generally expensive, and take longer to deliver results. They involve drawing a small blood sample, which is sent to a lab for analysis.

On the other hand, urine tests are widely available and more convenient. Results are also available within minutes. While at-home kits often claim to detect pregnancy days before a missed period, it’s best to wait until the day after a missed period for the most reliable results. Lab-quality urine testing, like the ones we provide at The Legacy Center, offers even greater accuracy.

Where Can I Get Testing?

At The Legacy Center, we provide free, lab-quality pregnancy testing to help you get the answers you need. If your result is positive, we can also offer referrals, options consultations, and education so you can feel prepared for your next steps. Contact us today to schedule your free and confidential appointment. Let us help you as you navigate the challenges of an unexpected pregnancy.

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