Why Take A Blood Pregnancy Test?
A blood pregnancy test is the most accurate form of pregnancy test available and is used to identify if a woman is pregnant even before she experiences common pregnancy symptoms like morning sickness or a missed period. A blood pregnancy test can detect a pregnancy as early as 6 to 8 days after ovulation, while an over-the-counter urine test is typically only able to detect a pregnancy as early as 12 to 15 days after ovulation.
When Should I Take A Blood Pregnancy Test?
When performed correctly, a blood pregnancy test is highly accurate and can offer quick results. Here are some guidelines to consider when taking a blood test:
- Consult with your doctor first: If a woman suspects she is pregnant, she should speak with her doctor first to discuss her options. Her doctor can provide her with information about the blood pregnancy test, common early signs of pregnancy, and important guidelines when taking the test.
- Wait until after your missed period: The test typically produces the most accurate results when it is taken 1 to 2 weeks after a missed period. This is because an increase in hCG hormone levels is associated with a missed period.
- Be cautious with certain fertility treatments: Women who have recently undergone certain fertility treatments, such as in-vitro fertilization (IVF), should consult with their doctor before taking a blood pregnancy test. IVF treatments may artificially increase hCG levels, which could lead to a false-positive result.
Accuracy Of Blood Tests
Blood pregnancy tests typically produce more reliable results than urine pregnancy tests because they measure the actual hCG hormone levels in the blood. An hCG level of 25 mIU/ml or higher indicates a positive pregnancy. Below is a brief summary of the accuracy levels of blood tests:
| hCG Level | Results |
| Less than 5 mIU/ml | Negative |
| 5 – 25 mIU/ml | Indeterminate |
| Above 25 mIU/ml | Positive |
What To Do With Results
If a woman tests positive for pregnancy, she should follow up with her doctor to confirm the results and to discuss her next steps. Her doctor can provide her with information about the pregnancy and recommended lifestyle changes, such as diet and exercise.
Knowing when to take a blood pregnancy test can be essential for detecting a pregnancy in its earliest stages. It is important for women to speak with their doctor before taking the test in order to ensure it is administered correctly and to discuss other important steps when taking the test.
Welcome to my fertility blog. This is a space where I will be sharing my experiences as I navigate through the world of fertility treatments, as well as provide information and resources about fertility and pregnancy.
