Pregnancy Blog
The Ultimate Guide to Pregnancy Tests
Rachael Kirkwood
Finding out you're pregnant can be one of the most exciting yet nerve-wracking moments in your life. Whether you're actively trying to conceive or just suspecting a pregnancy, knowing how and when to take a pregnancy test is crucial.
In this guide, we'll cover everything you need to know about pregnancy tests, including the best options, how to use a pregnancy test, and what to do when you find out you're pregnant.
If you’re experiencing any of the following signs of pregnancy, it may be time to take a pregnancy test:
If you have missed your period and have any of these early pregnancy symptoms, I would recommend taking a pregnancy test. If you’re unsure, take a pregnancy test today or visit your doctor for confirmation.
One of the most common questions is, "how early can I test for pregnancy?" Most home pregnancy tests, including the Clear Blue Pregnancy Test, can detect pregnancy hormones as early as 6 days before your missed period. However, for the most accurate result, it’s recommended to wait until the first day of your missed period.
If you’re 4 weeks pregnant, your HCG (human chorionic gonadotropin) levels should be high enough for a standard home pregnancy test to detect. By the time you’re 5 weeks pregnant, the results will be even clearer.
With so many options available, choosing the best pregnancy test can be overwhelming. Here are some of the top-rated pregnancy tests:
The Clearblue Digital Pregnancy Test with Weeks Indicator is the only home pregnancy test that not only tells you if you're pregnant but also estimates how many weeks along you are.
With over 99% accuracy from the day of your expected period, this digital test provides a clear ‘Pregnant’ or ‘Not Pregnant’ result, eliminating the uncertainty of interpreting lines.
If positive, it also displays an estimated conception timeframe (1-2, 2-3, or 3+ weeks), based on the levels of HCG in your urine. This makes it an excellent choice for those looking for both early detection and insight into their pregnancy timeline.
First Response Early Result Pregnancy Test
This is one of the most trusted and sensitive home pregnancy tests, designed to detect pregnancy up to 6 days before your missed period. With its ultra-sensitive technology, it can detect even low levels of HCG (human chorionic gonadotropin) with over 99% accuracy from the day of your expected period.
The easy-to-read two-line result appears in just 3 minutes, giving you fast and reliable answers when you need them most. Whether you're actively trying to conceive or just want early reassurance, First Response Early Result provides peace of mind with its clinically proven, early detection capabilities.
Easy@Home Pregnancy Test and Ovulation Strips Kit
A reliable and convenient way to track your fertility and early pregnancy at home. Designed for accuracy and ease of use, the ovulation test strips detect your LH surge, helping you identify your most fertile days, while the pregnancy test strips provide quick and clear results.
This kit pairs seamlessly with the Premom app, allowing you to log your results, track your cycle, and predict ovulation with AI-powered insights. Whether you're trying to conceive or simply monitoring your cycle, Easy@Home offers an affordable and effective solution for fertility tracking—all from the comfort of your home.
To ensure the most accurate result, follow these steps:
Check the Expiry Date – Using an expired test can lead to incorrect results.
Use Your First-Morning Urine – HCG levels are more concentrated in the morning.
Follow the Instructions – Some tests require midstream collection, while others require dipping into a collected sample.
Wait the Recommended Time – Don’t check too early, as results may not be fully developed.
Pregnancy tests work by detecting human chorionic gonadotropin (HCG), a hormone that your body starts producing after implantation. The lines on a pregnancy test can indicate different results, depending on the type of test you're using.
If you see two lines, even if one is faint, it generally means you are pregnant. The second line appears when the test detects HCG in your urine. A faint positive result may mean:
Next Steps:
If you see only one line, it usually means you are not pregnant. However, false negatives can occur if:
Next Steps:
A faint second line could indicate early pregnancy or an evaporation line (a colourless line appearing after the test has dried).
How to Tell the Difference:
If unsure, test again in 48 hours or try a digital pregnancy test, which clearly states "Pregnant" or "Not Pregnant."
If no lines appear, the test did not work properly. This could be due to:
Next Steps:
If you’ve just received a positive test result and are wondering what to do when you find out you’re pregnant, here are the next steps:
Confirm Your Pregnancy – Visit your doctor or healthcare provider for a pregnancy test / blood test.
Use a Pregnancy Calculator – Find out your estimated due date using our Pregnancy Due Date Calculator.
Start Taking Prenatal Vitamins – Essential nutrients like folic acid support healthy fetal development.
Book Your First Midwife Appointment – In the UK, this typically happens around 8–10 weeks. Your doctor will arrange this for you if you contact them
Adjust Your Lifestyle – Avoid alcohol, smoking, and limit caffeine intake for a healthy pregnancy.
Taking a pregnancy test can be an emotional experience, whether you're hoping for a positive result or feeling nervous about an unplanned pregnancy. Choosing the best pregnancy test and knowing when and how to test can make the process much easier.
Don’t forget to use our Pregnancy Calculator to estimate your due date once you get a positive result!
For more pregnancy tips and guidance, visit our blog and stay informed throughout your journey!
Want to learn more about pregnancy, prenatal care, and what to expect in each trimester? Download our FREE Pregnancy Guide to get expert tips to support you on your parenting journey!
