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Where can I get/have a pregnancy test?
'A kit for testing for the
hormone that changes
during pregnancy -
this can be tested for
in your urine two weeks
after the sex that made
you pregnant - not before.'
You can buy pregnancy tests at chemists and from some supermarkets.
You can have free pregnancy tests done at:
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Your general practice surgery.
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If you are under the age of 20, you can have a test at the
sexual health advice centre
(shac) in Clinic 1A at Addenbrooke's
or, up to the age of 25 at Centre
33, which is at 33 Clarendon Street in Cambridge; Tel: 01223
316 488.
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Any girl or woman of any age who is worried she might be pregnant
can have a free pregnancy test done at Cambridge Family Planning Service. The clinic does not do tests for women who were planning
to get pregnant. They should see their GP for a test and to
organise ante-natal care.
When can I have a pregnancy test?
Pregnancy tests cannot become positive until at least two weeks
after the sex that made you pregnant. Therefore, there is no point
taking a test before this time. Usually, tests are done a few
days after a missed period. If you are unsure, give us a ring
and we can work out when it is best to come for a test.
When will I know if I am pregnant?
The test gives a result in a few minutes.
How does the test work?
The tests measure the amount of pregnancy hormone in your urine
('pee'). The hormone is not present immediately after the sex
that made you pregnant but takes a couple of weeks to be detectable.
When should I collect the urine for the test?
If you are doing a home pregnancy test (one you have bought),
follow the instructions on the packet. If you are going to have
a test at a doctor's surgery, Centre 33 or a clinic, you will
be asked to collect some urine for testing or you can bring some
along with you. Some people find it difficult to 'pee' when they
are under pressure and prefer to do this at home - but do use
a clean bottle to collect it - you only need a small amount.
What does a negative result mean?
'Using our kits, we look
for a second stripe to
show the test is positive'
If the pregnancy test is negative, it might mean that you
are not pregnant but it might mean that it is too early
to test accurately. If you know you have run the risk of
getting pregnant but the test is negative it is a good idea
if your period hasn't come to repeat the test a week later
- just to be sure.
What does a positive test mean?
A positive pregnancy test means you are pregnant now.
How will I feel after the test?
Some people having a pregnancy test are already pretty sure that
they are pregnant. For others, a positive result is a complete
shock. Even when a positive result is expected, many people need
a bit of time to 'take it all in'. Many will wish to discuss the
situation with friends, family or health professionals - or just
have some time to think about what it means to them.
See You are pregnant, what are
your options.
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