If your birth control fails, you’re likely stressed and worried about the possibility of pregnancy. Whatever you’re feeling right now, it’s understandable. But taking a deep breath and deciding on a plan of action can help you find clarity.
While early pregnancy often causes common symptoms in many women, taking a pregnancy test and following up with an ultrasound (if you get a positive result) are the only ways to know for sure.
This article will highlight the essentials you need to know about pregnancy testing and ultrasounds. However, if you want to talk to someone in person about a potential pregnancy or find free supportive resources (like pregnancy testing and ultrasounds), contact PHC today to schedule a free, confidential appointment.
Pregnancy Testing
If you suspect your birth control has failed—such as a missed pill, condom break, or forgotten patch—timing your pregnancy test correctly is crucial for accurate results. The best time to take a home pregnancy test is after you’ve missed your period.
Home pregnancy tests are designed to detect the hormone human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG), which is produced after a fertilized egg attaches to the uterine lining. Testing too early might result in a false negative, which happens when hCG levels aren’t yet high enough to be detected by a pregnancy test.
Pregnancy Ultrasound
If you get a positive pregnancy test result, following up with an ultrasound is an essential step for confirming your pregnancy.
Ultrasound is a simple scan that uses sound waves to create a picture of your internal structures. During pregnancy, an ultrasound will help keep you safe by ruling out ectopic pregnancy (which is a life-threatening condition where the pregnancy develops outside your uterus) and miscarriage (which needs medical follow-up to ensure you don’t have complications).
Next Steps
Worrying about a potential unexpected pregnancy can make it feel like your world has turned upside down. But you’re not alone in this. At PHC, we’re here for you.
We offer free, medical-grade pregnancy testing and ultrasounds if you receive a positive result in our office.
Don’t delay. Get the clarity you need today by scheduling your free, confidential appointment.