One of the most common questions women have about pregnancy tests is whether it is better to wee on the stick or dip it in a cup of urine. While most pregnancy tests will give you highly accurate results either way, there are some pros and cons to consider before deciding which method is best for you.
Whilst both methods can yield accurate results, there are a few extra factors to consider. Dipping tends to be less messy and gives you more control over the testing process. It’s particularly handy if you’re a bit nervous or have trouble aiming! On the flip side, peeing directly on the stick is quicker and doesn’t require finding a clean container. Some women find it more convenient, especially when testing away from home. Whichever method you choose, make sure you’re comfortable and relaxed. Remember, stress can affect your cycle, so try not to worry too much about the mechanics of testing. The most important thing is following the instructions to get an accurate result.
You should only place the absorbent tip of the stick in your urine stream if you choose to pee on it. You should not allow the urine level to rise above the plastic housing of the test stick. You should also ensure that the test stick remains in your urine stream only for the designated amount of time. Taking the pregnancy test away too early or not letting it stay in your urine stream long enough can affect the validity of the results. Five seconds seems long when aiming your pee, but pulling it away too soon can lead to inaccurate results.
If you’re more comfortable dipping the pregnancy test in pee, you can use a clean cup to collect a sample of your urine and then dip the test strip into the sample for up to 5 seconds. Make sure to follow the directions as indicated on the box and remove the test strip from the cup as soon as your time is up. This method is beneficial because it’s less likely to cause any spills and you don’t have to worry about peeing directly onto the stick.
Overall, it’s really up to you to decide whether to dip or pee on a pregnancy test. Just keep in mind that the accuracy of the result depends on following the instructions on the box, no matter which method you choose.
When Is the Best Time to Take a Pregnancy Test?
The accuracy of pregnancy test results depends a lot on when you take the test. Taking a test too early can result in a false negative result.
To get the most accurate result, it’s best to take a pregnancy test after your missed period. However, modern pregnancy tests can detect low levels of hCG very early.
- If you take the test 6-7 days before your missed period, the accuracy is around 90%.
- Taking a test 1-2 days before your missed period boosts the accuracy to 97%.
- Taking the test on the day of your missed period gives you about 99% accuracy.
So for the most reliable results, wait until the first day of your missed period before taking a home pregnancy test. If you don’t want to wait that long, taking one 1-2 days before will still give you a fairly accurate answer.
Make sure to take the test first thing in the morning, when your urine is most concentrated. This will help maximise the accuracy.
Can You Trust Faint Lines on Pregnancy Tests?
Seeing a faint line on a home pregnancy test can be confusing. Is it a positive result or not?
The good news is that if you see any line at all, even a very faint one, it means the test detected hCG in your urine and you are likely pregnant.
Modern pregnancy tests are very sensitive and can pick up trace amounts of the pregnancy hormone. A faint line means the hCG level is still low, but rising.
A few things to keep in mind about faint positive lines:
- Don’t read the result after the recommended time, as any lines that appear after may be false positives.
- Don’t rely on a faint line if you took the test very early. Wait a day or two and test again to be sure.
- Faint lines are less reliable in early pregnancy. The best way to confirm is to have your doctor test your blood hCG levels.
So in summary – a faint line still counts as a positive result! But for the most definitive answer, be sure to take a follow up test in a day or two.
Zoom Baby is a leading supplier of Pregnancy Tests and Ovulation Test Kits
