Dear JuttingK,

Some home pregnancy tests tell women to avoid drinking a lot of fluids before taking the test, because this can dilute urine. Also, some tests recommend using the first urine of the day to take the test, because this is when urine is most concentrated.

Home pregnancy tests are very accurate when they're used correctly. It's very important to read and follow the instructions that are included with the home pregnancy test. They tell women how to use the test and how to read it.

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.

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.