If you recently had sex, even protected sex, but now your period is late, you’re most likely feeling anxious. You’re wondering if you are pregnant. We understand the stress of a late period and the emotions that come with it.
Whether your monthly cycle comes like clockwork or you never know from month to month when it will start, a late period could indicate a pregnancy. Your first step is to take a pregnancy test.
You can purchase a test at your local pharmacy or schedule free pregnancy testing at New Life.
When Should I Take a Pregnancy Test?
When a woman becomes pregnant, her body begins producing a pregnancy hormone called human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG). Eventually, the hCG hormone builds in her body and enters her urine and bloodstream.
To provide a positive result, the pregnancy test must detect hCG in your urine or blood. A reliable test result detects hCG the day after your period should have started. The longer you wait to test, the more accurate the results will be.
Can I Take a Home Pregnancy Test?
Home pregnancy tests are reliable, but experts recommend following the instructions carefully. Here are the steps you should take:
- Check to ensure the test date has not expired
- Read the directions thoroughly before you begin
- Test on the day of your missed period or a few days later
- Take the test in the morning when your urine is most concentrated
- Wait the recommended amount of time to view the results
- Retest in 3 to 5 days
Confirm the Results With an Ultrasound
If your pregnancy test is positive, confirm the results with a limited obstetrical ultrasound. An ultrasound provides critical information about your pregnancy that you need. Here’s what you’ll learn from an ultrasound:
- If your pregnancy is developing or if you have miscarried. Experts estimate that as many as 26% of all pregnancies end in a miscarriage. You could get a positive pregnancy test and no longer be pregnant.
- How far along you are in your pregnancy. This could determine your various options.
- The location of your pregnancy. Although rare, when pregnancies form outside the uterus, they are known as ectopic pregnancies. An ectopic pregnancy can be life-threatening.
Let New Life Help You
You shouldn’t have to wait and worry if your period is late. Come to New Life for free and confidential pregnancy testing. We’ll provide a free and confidential ultrasound if your test is positive.
We understand the stress you may be feeling. You don’t have to face the uncertainty alone. We’re here for you. Get the support you need at New Life. Schedule an appointment online or call (989) 732-1626.