If you think you might be pregnant, confirming it early is important for your health and the health of your baby. One of the most reliable ways to confirm pregnancy is through pregnancy marker testing. We offer advanced tests that can detect pregnancy early and provide you with the information you need for the best possible care.
What is Pregnancy Marker Testing?
Pregnancy marker testing involves measuring specific hormones in your body to confirm pregnancy. The two most important hormones involved are Human Chorionic Gonadotropin (hCG) and Progesterone.
- hCG: This hormone is produced by the placenta soon after a fertilized egg attaches to the uterine wall. The level of hCG rises quickly in the early stages of pregnancy, making it a key marker for detecting pregnancy.
- Progesterone: This hormone helps support the pregnancy and keeps it healthy. Low levels of progesterone can sometimes signal potential problems, such as a risk of miscarriage.
Why is Pregnancy Marker Testing Important?
Pregnancy marker testing provides several benefits:
- Early Detection: Pregnancy marker tests offer early confirmation, helping you make decisions about your health and prenatal care sooner.
- Accurate Results: While at-home pregnancy tests detect hCG in your urine, a blood test at a clinic is more accurate and can detect pregnancy earlier. It also gives detailed information about your pregnancy.
- Monitoring Pregnancy Health: Hormonal imbalances, such as low hCG or progesterone levels, can indicate potential pregnancy complications, like ectopic pregnancies or miscarriage. Early testing allows your doctor to identify issues early and take action if necessary.
- Identifying Multiple Pregnancies: Higher-than-normal hCG levels could suggest that you’re carrying twins or more, which can be detected with pregnancy marker testing.
When Should You Get a Pregnancy Marker Test?
A pregnancy marker test can be taken after a missed period. Blood tests can confirm pregnancy as early as 10-14 days after conception, while urine tests may not detect pregnancy until a little later. Consider taking a pregnancy test if:
- You’ve missed your period.
- You’re experiencing symptoms like nausea, breast tenderness, or frequent urination.
- You have concerns about your pregnancy or previous complications.
