Pregnancy Testing
Both urine and blood test are available for pregnancy testing at PromptMed Urgent Care.
How it works
Urine tests determine the presence of human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) in the body, which is a hormone produced during pregnancy. This method is quick, non-invasive and produces a reliable answer in just a few minutes.
Blood testing can be done with two different types of testing available. The first is Qualitative hCG testing, which confirms if the hormone hCG is present in the body. This test produces a positive or negative result. The second blood testing that can be done is a Quantitative hCG test which measures the exact amount of hCG in the body. This test gives more detailed information which can help determine the progress of the pregnancy. These tests typically produce results in 1-2 days.
False positives: Prompt Med Urgent Care healthcare providers are trained to perform pregnancy tests accurately; therefore, false positives are uncommon. However, they can occur if the sample is contaminated, or if the patient is on certain medications such as fertility drugs.
Tips for home testing
When using a urine pregnancy test at home, results are typically more accurate with your first urination of the day. The later in the day the urine is tested the more likely it is to have been watered down.
It is best to wait until the first missed period when suspicions of pregnancy arise. Otherwise, false negatives could be a possibility.
Some reasons people choose to get their pregnancy testing done by a healthcare provider
Earlier detections and more accurate results: Blood testing done by a healthcare professional can measure the exact level of hCG which can give more detailed information about the pregnancy.
Professional interpretation: While at home tests are generally reliable, they can be difficult to read at times. Our providers can provide clear and accurate results and advice as to what the test means.
Irregular periods: While menstrual cycles can be useful to determine chance of pregnancy, some women experience irregular periods making them an unreliable tool to predict pregnancy.
Comprehensive care: Our providers can provide additional services if needed such as screening for sexually transmitted infections (STIs) or other pregnancy-related health issues.
Privacy & peace of mind: Our clinics offer a safe environment and a confidential setting with guaranteed privacy security.
If yourself or a loved one think they may be pregnant come see our providers at any of our PromptMed Urgent Care clinics. Located in Antioch IL, Waukegan IL, Highland Park IL, and Grayslake IL (coming soon). Our providers will provide you with a definitive answer in a safe and comfortable environment. Find your PromptMed Urgent Care here.
