Written by Mia Thompson. Reviewed by Alex Johnson.
Say hello to the latest innovation in pregnancy testing! Our OVUM Early Detection Pregnancy Tests are crafted with high sensitivity and fully recyclable materials, making them perfect for those on the journey to conceive.
To give you a better understanding of these thoughtfully designed tests, we’ve consulted our experts to break down the essentials of pregnancy testing—without the confusing lingo.
So, how do pregnancy tests actually work?
Most tests available recognize human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG), a hormone produced by the placenta after a fertilized egg attaches to the uterus. As the pregnancy advances, hCG levels increase and can be detected by a test, resulting in a positive reading. You can find more information on how these tests function in one of our other blog posts here.
Why is the sensitivity of a pregnancy test important?
If used correctly, most tests boast an accuracy rate of 98% to 99% on the day your period is due. However, many tests fall short in accuracy when done earlier, and this crucial detail is often buried in the fine print. You may see bold claims like “99% accurate” along with instructions suggesting you can test “3-6 days before your period.” Let’s clarify: the only time these tests are truly 99% accurate is on the day your period is due. Testing earlier lowers the accuracy, and it’s vital for you to be aware of this.
The sensitivity of a test is measured in mIU/mL (milli-international units per milliliter). The lower the number, the more sensitive the test. Most tests in the U.K. have a sensitivity of 25 mIU/mL, while OVUM stands out with a sensitivity of just 10 mIU/mL.
What about false results?
We know the excitement of testing early, but it’s crucial to consider the risks involved, which can lead to:
- A false negative: You may be pregnant, but hCG levels aren’t high enough for detection.
- A false positive: You might have been pregnant but experienced an early miscarriage (often referred to as a ‘chemical pregnancy’). It’s rare for tests to show false positives, but issues have arisen with other brands in the U.K., which were swiftly addressed.
Experiencing either of these outcomes can be disheartening, so we advocate for the #WaitToWee approach.
The “Wait to Wee” Approach
Even though some pregnancy tests claim effectiveness up to 5 or 6 days before your period, a study by Made for Mums found that 6.5% of early pregnancy tests yield false or misleading results. Therefore, we fully support the #WaitToWee campaign, which encourages waiting until the day after your period is due for a more reliable result. If you’re undergoing IVF or other fertility treatments, you might have a clinic blood test scheduled to confirm pregnancy. If you decide to test at home beforehand, be mindful that early testing may lead to misleading results. Accurate at-home pregnancy tests are essential here.
So, why choose OVUM Early Detection Pregnancy Tests?
At OVUM, our mission is to support the trying-to-conceive community. Our scientifically supported supplement is already part of patient protocols in 21 private IVF clinics throughout the U.K. Our new OVUM Early Detection Pregnancy Test is designed for maximal accuracy, featuring clear, easy-to-follow instructions. Plus, we care about the environment—our tests are fully recyclable. We also provide emotional support through every step of your journey, making it feel less daunting.
For those interested in home insemination, check out resources like this artificial insemination kit. Additionally, if you’re looking for information on related topics, you might find this article on symptoms and treatments of pregnancy skin rashes useful. For a broader understanding of fertility treatments, visit WebMD.
In summary, OVUM Early Detection Pregnancy Tests are designed with sensitivity and accuracy in mind, making them a reliable choice for those trying to conceive. We prioritize sustainability and emotional support, ensuring that you feel confident throughout your journey.