The pregnancy test

Whether a little feared or eagerly anticipated: most probably start with the nervous wait for the result of the home pregnancy test. But when can you actually perform a pregnancy test? Should you wait for the absence of your period or do you need a special early detection test in this case? And how does such a test work at all? We spoke with our expert, LILLYDOO gynecologist Christian, about this.

How does a home pregnancy test work?

A pregnancy test for home use is available over-the-counter at drugstores and pharmacies. It contains an absorbent test strip that reacts to the pregnancy hormone hCG in your urine. In a display window, you can then read whether you are pregnant or not. If you use it exactly according to the instructions, such a home pregnancy test is very reliable. In addition to the classic pregnancy tests, which show one or two colored lines (two lines = pregnant), there are now also digital tests that display the result with words or symbols.

How much does a pregnancy test cost?

In the drugstore, a normal digital pregnancy test costs between €10 and €12, while in the pharmacy it can be up to €18. An early detection test costs around €7 in the drugstore, and about €8 to €10 in the pharmacy. Simple, non-digital test strips are much cheaper, starting at around €3. Aside from the fact that there may be different brands in the pharmacy than in the drugstore, it doesn't matter where you buy your test. The functionality is always the same.

How do you do a pregnancy test?

Before you start, carefully read the instructions for your test and double-check its expiration date for safety. It is recommended to take the pregnancy test with first morning urine, immediately after waking up, because the hCG concentration is highest then. For the same reason, you should not drink excessive amounts of fluids before the test – this will dilute your urine.

When you're ready to take the test, it's best to collect your urine in a clean container. You can also hold the test strip directly in the urine stream, but that requires good aim and some contortions. ;) Dip the test strip into your urine for a few seconds. Then it's time to wait. Most tests display your result after a few minutes.

When can you take a pregnancy test?

When does a pregnancy test show a result?

LILLYDOO Gynecologist Christian recommends not taking the pregnancy test too early. Only a few days after your missed period, approximately 14 days after ovulation, is the test's reliability assured. Some digital pregnancy tests even indicate your probable pregnancy week with a positive result, while traditional analog tests with colored strips only differentiate between pregnant and not pregnant. If you want to know earlier whether you are pregnant, you can take a special early detection test. These can provide results even before your period is due.

What is a pregnancy early detection test?

Basically, an early pregnancy test works the same way as a regular pregnancy test – you can just perform it a bit earlier. It can already provide a reliable result before your period is due. The early test also measures the pregnancy hormone hCG. However, the early test is not as reliable as the regular pregnancy test; therefore, Dr. Christian, a gynecologist at LILLYDOO, advises waiting to test until your period is actually late.

How accurate is such a pregnancy test?

In general, a pregnancy test from the pharmacy is very reliable. If you are unsure or if your test does not show a clear result, you can repeat it after a few days. Alternatively, you can have a check-up with your gynecologist to determine whether you are pregnant.

What to do if the pregnancy test is positive?

Within the next two weeks, you should make an appointment with your gynecologist or midwife. During this you can discuss things like , stress at the workplace, and similar topics. Especially the intake of is important – if you haven't already, you should start doing so now. Additionally, you should arrange for care by a promptly. You also know that, for the sake of your baby, you should abstain from alcohol, nicotine, and other drugs. :)

And what if the test is negative?

If your pregnancy test is negative and you have used it correctly, no HCG could be detected in your urine. This most likely means that you are not pregnant. If your period still remains absent, consult your doctor to determine the reasons.

How does your doctor confirm the pregnancy?

In practice, another pregnancy test can be performed using urine, but this is usually not necessary, as the tests for home use are very reliable. In addition to the intake interview, your doctor will perform an initial . Ten to fourteen days after a positive pregnancy test, the pregnancy can also be seen on the ultrasound.

In the video, gynecologist Christian explains the most important facts about pregnancy tests:

Of course, the same applies to pregnancy tests: If you're unsure, seek advice from your doctor. They will be able to help you individually and give you the best advice. We wish you all the best for your pregnancy!