Dear mundoo123,

Home pregnancy tests are highly accurate when they're used correctly, but if they are taken too early — or if a woman does not follow the directions on a home pregnancy test — the results may not be accurate. It's important to follow the instructions carefully to make sure that the test is accurate.

Pregnancy tests work by detecting a hormone called the human chorionic gonadotropin hormone (HCG). HCG is the hormone that supports pregnancy and starts being released when the fertilized egg implants itself and pregnancy begins. A pregnancy test can detect pregnancy after a missed period — some can even detect it a few days before a missed period.

After doing a home pregnancy test, a woman may want to schedule a pregnancy test at health center to confirm the results and get follow-up care. To find a Planned Parenthood health center near you, call 1-800-230-PLAN.

Hope this information helps!

Take care,

teenwire.com^® Editors

This column is for informational purposes only and is not intended to constitute medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. If you have a medical problem, please call toll-free 1-800-230-PLAN for an appointment with the Planned Parenthood health center nearest you.