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

Are you experiencing a missed period, nausea, frequent urination, or moodiness? These are common symptoms that may point to pregnancy. Maybe you’re wondering what kind of pregnancy test to take. The main difference between a blood and urine pregnancy test is how they are done and where. Keep reading to learn more.

Different Types of Pregnancy Tests

There are two main types of pregnancy tests: urine pregnancy tests and blood pregnancy tests.

A urine test is taken at home and followed up with a medical professional while a medical center performs blood pregnancy tests.

Urine Pregnancy Tests

You may have already taken an at-home urine pregnancy test. This is the most common type, which measures hCG (human chorionic gonadotropin) in your urine. According to the Mayo Clinic, you should take an at-home test at least one week after your missed period for the most accurate results.

At-home urine pregnancy tests are 99% effective and are very easy to use. When taking a urine test, you will place a couple of drops on a strip or place the strip in the urine stream. Then you will wait a couple of minutes, up to 10 minutes, for the results depending on the type of test.

Blood Pregnancy Tests

Though blood pregnancy tests are rare, they are done on special occasions for women facing infertility or when a medical professional suspects any possible health or pregnancy issues. A medical professional may also use a blood test to compare hCG levels during pregnancy. 

Blood tests are more sensitive than urine tests due to their ability to detect smaller amounts of hCG. They can show you a more accurate answer earlier on in pregnancy.

A blood test will require a blood sample to be sent to a lab for analysis. As a result, you may not have the results for more than a day.

If Your Pregnancy Test is Positive

If your at-home pregnancy test was positive and you’re wondering what’s next, see us today at First Care. 

Once you receive a positive pregnancy test at our center, an ultrasound is necessary to understand your options moving forward. An ultrasound will give you more pregnancy details and alert you to any possible complications.

Schedule a free and confidential appointment with us. Same-day appointments are available. We are here for you!