What You Need to Know if You Think You Are Pregnant
Realizing you might be pregnant can bring a mix of emotions—uncertainty, worry, and even fear. You may already have questions swirling in your mind, or you might not be ready to think about what comes next. That’s okay. Before you make any decisions about your next steps, the most important thing is to confirm whether you are truly pregnant.
At Centro Tepeyac, we’re here to help you take that first step in a safe, supportive environment, and we provide all our services at no cost. Click here to make an appointment or call us at (301) 587-9516.
When Should I Take a Pregnancy Test?
One of the first questions you might have is when to test. Most at-home pregnancy test kits suggest you can take the test on the first day of a missed period. However, experts recommend waiting at least seven more days for a more accurate result.
The reason is simple: pregnancy tests work by detecting a hormone called human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) in your urine. If you test too early, the hCG levels might not be high enough to register, which could lead to a false negative result. This means you might actually be pregnant, but the test doesn’t show it yet.
It’s natural to feel anxious and want answers right away, but waiting those extra days can make all the difference. If you want to know more about this, you can always check this link.
How Reliable Are At-Home Tests?
At-home pregnancy tests can be a good starting point, but their accuracy depends on how and when they’re used. Common issues include:
- Testing too early: As mentioned, this can result in a false negative.
- Improper use: Even small mistakes, like misreading the instructions or not timing it correctly, can impact the results.
- Variation in test quality: Some brands are more sensitive to hCG levels than others.
While at-home tests can give you an initial answer, they aren’t always reliable. At Centro Tepeyac, we use certified, lab-quality pregnancy tests designed for accuracy. Our tests are 97%-99% accurate, so you can trust the results. Most importantly, we don’t just give you a result—we offer support and guidance for whatever comes next.
What Comes After a Positive Test?
If your test is positive, you may find yourself overwhelmed with even more questions. Am I really pregnant? How far along am I? What are my options?
Sometimes, confirming a pregnancy may require additional steps, like an ultrasound. While we don’t offer ultrasounds at Centro Tepeyac, we can help connect you with the resources you need to get one. An ultrasound can provide more information about the pregnancy, including:
- The baby’s growth and development.
- The baby’s heartbeat.
- The pregnancy timeline—how far along you are and an estimated due date.
We also help you navigate the process of applying for health insurance in the U.S., ensuring you can access medical care and other essential services for your pregnancy.
Why It’s Important to Confirm Your Pregnancy
Before making any decisions, it’s crucial to confirm your pregnancy and have all the information you need. An accurate pregnancy test is the first step to understanding your situation. At Centro Tepeyac, we offer a secure, compassionate place to take that first step.
Why Choose Centro Tepeyac?
We know this may be one of the most challenging times in your life. That’s why we’ve created a space where you can feel safe, respected, and supported. When you visit Centro Tepeyac, you’ll find:
- Reliable, certified pregnancy tests with high accuracy.
- Assistance with health insurance applications and referrals for ultrasounds if needed.
- A compassionate team ready to guide you through your options, no matter what you’re feeling or facing.
Take that first step today. Before making any decisions, make sure you have all the facts. Visit Centro Tepeyac to confirm your pregnancy in a secure and confident space. We’re here to support you every step of the way—and all our services are free.