There are two types of pregnancy tests. The one most women take is the urine test, but there’s also a blood pregnancy test.
If you think you’re pregnant, you may be wondering what the difference is between the two. Both detect the presence of the human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) hormone. This hormone is produced at the beginning of a pregnancy and builds rapidly in the first few weeks of pregnancy. Most of your pregnancy symptoms are caused by this hormone.
What Is the Difference Between a Blood and Urine Pregnancy Test?
Urine Pregnancy Tests
Urine pregnancy tests are administered at a doctor’s office, health clinic, or pregnancy center and can also be taken at home. They are often performed by dipping the test into a urine sample, or by placing the test stick into your urine stream.
Results are typically produced in a matter of minutes. Depending on the brand of the test you take, results may be indicated by a change in color, symbol, or line on the test.
It’s important to follow the instructions that come with your pregnancy test to make sure you read the results correctly.
When can I take a urine test?
The sensitivity of urine tests vary. You’ll typically get the most accurate results when you wait at least one week after your missed period. Taking the test too early can produce false test results.
Is the urine pregnancy test accurate?
At-home urine pregnancy tests are usually around 97% accurate when taken correctly. If your test was negative but you continue to experience pregnancy symptoms, it’s important to confirm with another test by visiting a pregnancy center like Avenue Women’s Center.
Blood Pregnancy Tests
There are two different types of blood pregnancy tests: quantitative and qualitative. Quantitative blood tests measure the amount of hCG in your blood, while a qualitative blood test only reveals if you are pregnant or not.ser
Blood pregnancy test advantages:
A blood test can be taken earlier in pregnancy. As soon as you suspect you may be pregnant, you can take a blood test, even before you miss a period.
A blood test can also measure the concentration of hCG in your blood. This is useful information for your doctor to monitor the pregnancy. You may be asked to take another blood test at a later date to evaluate the increase of the hCG levels.
Blood pregnancy test disadvantages:
Blood pregnancy tests are more expensive than urine pregnancy tests and must be administered by a doctor. You can’t perform a blood test at home.
It also takes longer to get your results from a blood pregnancy test. A urine test reveals your results almost right away.
Free Urine Pregnancy Tests
At Avenue Women’s Center, we offer free medical-grade urine-based pregnancy tests. Our tests are over 99% accurate, just 10 days after possible conception. You’ll find out your results right away. Our staff is on hand to answer any questions you have and offer information about our other pregnancy services.
Contact us to schedule a free, confidential pregnancy test appointment today.
- American Pregnancy Association. (2020, January) Pregnancy Test. Retrieved from: https://americanpregnancy.org/getting-pregnant/understanding-pregnancy-tests-70933/
Reviewed by Patricia Kuenzi, APN-CNP, MSN, ANP, PNP.
The information provided here is general in nature. It is not a substitute for a consultation with a medical professional. Before any medical procedure, it is imperative that you discuss your personal medical history, risks, and concerns with your doctor. If you have questions during or after a procedure, your doctor should be immediately contacted. Avenue Women’s Center is not an emergency center. If you are experiencing severe symptoms, such as bleeding and/or pain, seek immediate medical attention. Contact your physician, go to an emergency room, or call 911.