What Is the Difference Between a Blood and Urine Pregnancy Test?

Are you wondering about the two types of pregnancy tests and which you should take?

Keep reading to learn the differences, or visit Positive Options for free and medically reliable pregnancy confirmation to find out if you’re pregnant with certainty. Schedule an appointment by calling us at 616.546.0610.

How Pregnancy Tests Work

Both urine and blood pregnancy tests work by detecting the presence of the human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) hormone. The placenta produces this hormone after the fertilized egg implants into the lining of the uterus. However, it takes time for hCG to rise to detectable levels.

Urine Pregnancy Tests

A urine pregnancy test is available for free at Positive Options. You can also find them at local drugstores or pharmacies. Urine pregnancy tests can often detect hCG about 10 days after conception, which may align with the timing of your next expected period.

The Mayo Clinic advises taking this type of pregnancy test at least the day after your missed period for accurate pregnancy test results. If you take a test too soon, you may receive a false-negative result. 

It’s also best to take a pregnancy test first thing in the morning when your urine is the most concentrated—making hCG easier to detect. Remember that even a very light positive line counts as a positive pregnancy test.  

Blood Pregnancy Tests

Blood pregnancy tests can detect pregnancy earlier than urine pregnancy tests and provide quantitative information on the amount of hCG in the blood. These are less accessible than urine pregnancy tests because you must visit a doctor’s office or lab. They may also be more expensive if insurance doesn’t cover them.

Healthcare providers often use blood pregnancy tests to compare levels of hCG to see if they are rising or falling and screen for possible complications like miscarriage. 

Free Pregnancy Tests 

At Positive Options, we can provide you with an on-site, free urine pregnancy test. Our team is here to discuss your results and help you understand what’s next.

If you receive a positive pregnancy test result with us, we can offer a limited obstetric ultrasound to provide more pregnancy details and help you explore all your pregnancy options.

To get answers about your pregnancy, schedule a pregnancy test appointment today by calling 616.546.0610. We’re here for you.