What is the Digital Pregnancy Test and How to Use Human Chorionic Gonadotropin (hCG) Digital Pregnancy Rapid Test Kit?
Since it can be detected shortly after conception and its levels increase rapidly during the initial stages of fetal development, human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) is widely recognized as an early and reliable indicator of pregnancy. Therefore, alongside its essential roles in the establishment and maintenance of pregnancy and fetal development, human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) has also been utilized for the development of various types of pregnancy tests. Among these, rapid test strips that detect human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) in urine have become widely available without prescription and are quite popular. With the recent development of digitalized rapid test kits, the result of the test can now be displayed on a digital screen. Read along to learn more about the digital pregnancy test and how it is used to detect human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) in urine for the early detection of possible pregnancy.
What is Human Chorionic Gonadotropin (hCG)?
Human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) is a glycoprotein hormone that is produced largely by the placenta during pregnancy. It has two subunits, alpha, and beta, and it shares significant structural similarities with luteinizing hormone (LH), follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), and thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH). The production of human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) begins after the implantation of the fertilized egg into the uterine lining, which often occurs around 6-12 days after ovulation. The placenta releases human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) into the bloodstream of the mother, and levels of the hormone upsurge throughout the first trimester of pregnancy before gradually declining thereafter. The main function of human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) during pregnancy is to facilitate the growth and development of the fetus. In addition, it supports the survival of the corpus luteum, which is a gland that produces progesterone in the early stages of pregnancy. Progesterone, in turn, helps maintain the endometrium and promotes fetal growth. Likewise, human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) also stimulates the secretion of estrogen, which partakes in fetal development. However, the production of human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) has been associated with certain types of cancers, such as testicular, ovarian, and bladder cancer. Therefore, elevated levels of human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) may also serve as a tumor marker and may be utilized to monitor cancer activity.
What are the early signs of pregnancy?
Although they can differ from woman to woman, early signs of pregnancy often include missed periods, nausea, vomiting, tender/swollen breasts, sensitive nipples, fatigue, cramping, spotting, increased urination, mood swings, food aversions, and cravings. Still, it is important to note that these symptoms can also be caused by many other factors, such as stress or hormonal imbalances. Therefore, if you experience any of the associated symptoms or suspect that you may be pregnant, it is recommended to take a pregnancy test. After taking a pregnancy test, it is advised to consult with a healthcare provider to confirm the pregnancy and receive prenatal care.
What is the Digital Pregnancy Test?
Utilizing immunoassay technology, digital pregnancy tests detect the presence of human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) in real-time. If human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) is present in the tested urine, it binds to and is captured by the labeled antibodies, resulting in colored lines or other forms of signals. Unlike traditional tests, digital pregnancy tests indicate the results by “pregnant” or “not pregnant” on a screen. In addition, certain digital pregnancy tests may also provide additional information, such as the estimated time since conception. Altogether, the accuracy of digital pregnancy tests is typically high, and most digital pregnancy tests offer a 99% accuracy rate on the day of a missed period if used correctly. While the cost of digital pregnancy tests may be higher than traditional pregnancy tests, they are widely available for purchase at drug stores and online retailers without a prescription. However, it is advised to wait until the first day of a missed period to take a pregnancy test, as hCG levels may not be sufficient for detection before this time.
How to Use Human Chorionic Gonadotropin (hCG) Digital Pregnancy Rapid Test Kit?
In order to receive the most accurate results, the instructions in the manual should be reviewed carefully prior to the test procedure. The test requires the collection of a urine sample, and the first urine of the day is recommended for testing since it is often more concentrated in terms of the level of human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG). After the urine is collected in a sterile and dry container, the assay is removed from its sealed packaging, with the strip or stick inserted into the urine sample. Depending on the instructions of the specific test kit, the assay may also be held directly in the urine stream for the specified reaction time. Following the specified reaction time, the test will display results on the digital screen. A positive result will usually indicate the word “pregnant,” whereas a negative result will typically indicate “not pregnant.” Additional information, such as the estimated time since conception, may also be provided depending on the specific test kit. False positives and false negatives may occur with any pregnancy test. False positives may occur if the test is not used correctly if the test is performed too early, if the tested person uses certain medications, or in the case of an ectopic or chemical pregnancy; if you have any concerns about the results or suspect you may be pregnant, it is advised to confirm the result with a healthcare provider.
