Am I really pregnant? You may be asking yourself this question after seeing a positive home pregnancy test result. It can all feel surreal in the moment, but before imagining too far into the future, take a follow-up, lab-quality pregnancy test to confirm your pregnancy. You may have questions like…
- What will my partner/family/friends think?
- How can I financially support a child right now?
- What about adoption and parenting?
- What are the risks of abortion?
- Can I continue to go to school?
We know you have many questions right now. No matter what happens, you don’t have to take your next steps alone. We’re here to walk alongside you. Try your best to take one step at a time.
Are You Wondering If You’re Pregnant?
A missed period is usually the first sign of pregnancy, but there are other symptoms too. When your menstrual cycle changes and you’re not feeling well, you could be pregnant. Maybe you’re second-guessing how you took a pregnancy test or wondering if you need to take another one.
Early Pregnancy Symptoms
You may experience one or more of these common early pregnancy symptoms. Any of these may point to a potential pregnancy, according to the Mayo Clinic:
- Fatigue
- Nausea
- Frequent urge to urinate
- Tender or swollen breasts
- Mood swings
- Food cravings or aversions
- A missed period
Keep reading to learn how pregnancy tests work and why receiving a lab-quality pregnancy test at your local pregnancy center is needed for pregnancy confirmation.
How Does A Pregnancy Test Work?
Pregnancy tests work by testing the pregnancy hormone hCG through urine or blood. You can begin the process with an at-home pregnancy test from your local drugstore. You may also get a blood test at your local healthcare clinic.
Could The Results Be Wrong?
You may have received a false positive pregnancy test result if you took it too early. There isn’t enough hCG in your system yet to be detected, which gives you an inaccurate pregnancy test result. The Cleveland Clinic shares that you should wait until after you have missed your period before taking a test.
According to pregnancy kit manufacturers, most at-home pregnancy tests are 98% to 99% accurate when you use them as instructed.
When To Take A Pregnancy Test
The best time to take a pregnancy test is at least one day after a missed period to get the most accurate results. At this time, your body has time to produce the right amount of hCG hormone to be accurately detected in a test.
Though pregnancy tests can detect hCG in urine as early as four days before your missed period, it is more sensitive in the days after. You can receive a more accurate result from the test by waiting longer.
Free Pregnancy Testing
Don’t wait and wonder. Come to Birthright for free pregnancy testing. There’s no appointment needed, and you will have your answer immediately. Even if you have already taken an at-home pregnancy test, get the result confirmed. Although home pregnancy tests are reliable, it’s possible to take them too early or follow the directions incorrectly.
Come in for a free and confidential pregnancy test on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, or Thursdays from 11 am to 2 pm. If that isn’t convenient, schedule an appointment for one of the other days of the week. We’re here to serve you.
The Test Is Positive. Now What?
If your pregnancy test is positive, we can arrange for you to receive a free and confidential ultrasound. A pregnancy test only indicates the possibility of pregnancy, but ultrasound verifies if the pregnancy is viable (growing with a detectable heartbeat).
Birthright staff members value one-on-one contact with each woman in need and the people around her. We provide personal attention to ensure you receive the best care.
We want to hear your story and learn more about your unique pregnancy situation. Then, we can provide pregnancy counseling and discuss your options. We provide a safe and non-judgmental space.
You Have More Than One Choice.
If you received a positive pregnancy test result, we’re here for you. Maybe you’re afraid you don’t have the support you need, or you are going to school and are unsure about what’s next. You have more than one option.
Discuss your three pregnancy options of adoption, abortion, and parenting with us today. We are here for you and can offer you free and confidential support. Ultimately, you have the final say when it comes to your final pregnancy decision. No one should ever pressure you into any decision.
Here Are Just A Few Of The Free Services We Provide:
- Pregnancy assistance and an options consultation
- Medical referrals
- A Medicaid proof-of-pregnancy form
- Help obtaining an ultrasound
- Adoption services
- Referrals to social services
- Personal support and confidential help
We’re Here For You
Having someone to talk to is sometimes all you need. At Birthright of Winston-Salem, we’re here for you as long as you need a friend. We will help you navigate your unexpected or difficult pregnancy and give you the tools to make an empowered decision.
Use our 24-hour free hotline (1-800-550-4900) for questions, advice, or a friendly companion to speak with. Birthright is here to provide the companionship and help you need. Don’t ever hesitate to reach out with your questions or concerns about pregnancy or to learn more about our services and support!
It’s not an easy journey ahead, but you are braver than you know. Our compassionate team is here to help!