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Month: June 2023

Can I Count On The Accuracy Of A Home Pregnancy Test?

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The following article was researched and written by Suzy (MSN, RN), a nurse at Two Lines Pregnancy Clinic (formerly Advice & Aid Pregnancy Center). We believe it is important that when women or men have questions regarding a possible pregnancy, that they get accurate, helpful information from the medical community. Here, Suzy helps clear up some of the questions and misinformation regarding home pregnancy tests.

If you think you might be pregnant, it’s important to get the most accurate information quickly.

A home pregnancy test works by detecting pregnancy hormones (HCG) present in urine and blood.   When a fertilized egg attaches to the lining of the uterus, HCG is produced.  HCG is usually produced about six days after fertilization but varies with each individual woman.  During pregnancy, levels of HCG continue to rise rapidly, doubling every two to three days.

How Accurate Is A Home Pregnancy Test?
There are many different brands of home pregnancy tests.  Some are more sensitive than others in the ability to detect a pregnancy.  The more sensitive tests can detect lower amounts of HCG and can produce a positive result earlier in the pregnancy.  Research suggests that many home pregnancy tests are not sensitive enough to diagnose pregnancy in women who have recently missed a period. For the most reliable results, take the test one week after your missed period.   The most sensitive and accurate urine pregnancy tests are available through physician offices, hospitals, clinic labs, and Pregnancy Centers (such as Two Lines (formerly Advice & Aid)).

What Do Positive Results Mean on a Home Pregnancy Test?
If you get a positive result, you are pregnant. This is true no matter how faint the line, color, or sign is. If you get a positive result, your next step needs to be to call your doctor or a Pregnancy Center such as Two Lines (formerly Advice & Aid) to talk about what comes next.

A false-positive test (positive test but not pregnant) can occur if there is a pregnancy loss soon after implantation, an ectopic pregnancy (pregnancy that occurs outside of the uterus), or during menopause.  Also, the use of certain drugs like fertility drugs, tranquilizers or sleeping pills, anticonvulsants, or sleeping pills can also cause false-positive results.

What Do Negative Results Mean on a Home Pregnancy Test?
Negative results usually indicate no pregnancy.  However, a pregnancy can be present with a negative test if the test is taken too soon, urine is too diluted, or instructions on the package were not followed exactly.

Tips to follow for the most accurate results:

* For the most accurate results, take the test first thing in the morning when urine is the most concentrated

* Always check the test’s expiration date and read the instructions carefully before you take the test.

Two Lines (formerly Advice & Aid) can provide a medical-grade, high-sensitivity pregnancy test, all at no cost to you. There is no judgment, and no high-pressuring. . . simply help, options, and a knowledgeable friend who can help you sort it all out.

If there is the possibility that you might be pregnant, simply schedule an appointment at a time that works for you. It’s private, close – and you’ll begin to get the help that you need.

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References:
WebMD
MayoClinic.org

The Difference One Appointment Can Make

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These thoughts were shared with us by one of the women who sits at our front desk. As she is the first face many see in stressful times here, her caring personality and calm demeanor helps set the tone for an appointment filled with answers.

In my role here at Two Lines Pregnancy Clinic (formerly Advice & Aid Pregnancy Center), I see clients as they first come in the door.  I work at the front desk helping people fill out paperwork and answering phone calls. I have even been requested to set up a date for someone! I often see people that are nervous or overwhelmed or seem to have so many things they are carrying emotionally. I wish I could explain the difference that I see before an appointment and after an appointment.  I see them at both crossroads.  When someone is facing an unplanned pregnancy, it is very important to not go through it alone.

 After their appointment, the clients I see look relieved.  They are relieved for many reasons, but I think it is because they know someone else wants the very best for them and for their baby and family.  They feel empowered that they are capable to handle hard things with the right support and education.  They feel confident that difficult roads often lead to beautiful destinations.  Our hope here is that each woman feels valued and heard and encouraged as she leaves our clinic.  From my vantage point, I see that happening every day.

So what exactly can you find at Two Lines (formerly Advice & Aid) during this appointment?
According to the Charlotte Lozier Institute, pregnancy centers like Two Lines (formerly Advice & Aid) “Provide essential and professional care to vulnerable women and youth on a free or low-cost basis . . .” Here, all of our services are always free. The Institute goes on to say, “By providing practical assistance and links to needed resources, pregnancy centers improve health outcomes for women and promote health and well-being for themselves, their children, and their families.”

Every year, centers like ours serve over 2 million women nationwide. Additionally, services and material assistance – just like our no-cost model – totals over $250 million across the United States in no-cost, quality care. (To read more: visit the Charlotte Lozier Institute Fact Sheet)

Our commitment to you
Here at Two Lines (formerly Advice & Aid), we have a very thorough Commitment of Care and Competence, that you can read here. Two Lines Pregnancy Clinic (formerly Advice & Aid Pregnancy Center) helps women and their families make an educated decision about an unplanned pregnancy. We do this by providing evidence-based, medical information about parenting, adoption and abortion. In many cases, an unplanned pregnancy is a very stressful situation.

It’s easy to schedule your appointment at a time that best fits you. Even if you are just looking for someone to talk to – you’re in good hands here. Our receptionist will be waiting!

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Embracing the Rhythm: Understanding a Woman’s Menstrual Cycle

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The menstrual cycle is a remarkable and intricate process that occurs within a woman’s body. It is a natural occurrence that allows for the possibility of pregnancy and signifies a woman’s reproductive health. Despite its significance, the menstrual cycle has often been shrouded in mystery and taboos. In this blog post, we aim to shed light on this topic and empower women by providing a comprehensive understanding of their menstrual cycle.


Understanding the Menstrual Cycle
The menstrual cycle is a recurring series of physiological changes that a woman’s body goes through in preparation for pregnancy. It typically lasts around 28 days, but can vary from woman to woman. The cycle is orchestrated by the complex interplay of hormones, primarily estrogen and progesterone, and involves several phases:

Menstruation: The cycle begins with menstruation, often referred to as “the period”, the shedding of the uterine lining. This phase lasts for about 3-7 days, and women may experience varying levels of discomfort or pain, known as dysmenorrhea.

Follicular Phase: After menstruation, the follicular phase begins. During this phase, the pituitary gland releases follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), which stimulates the ovaries to develop several follicles. One follicle will eventually become dominant and mature, while the others will regress.

Ovulation: The mature follicle releases an egg during ovulation, usually around the 14th day of the cycle. This is the most fertile period for women, as the egg can be fertilized by sperm and lead to pregnancy.

Luteal Phase: After ovulation, the ruptured follicle transforms into the corpus luteum, which produces progesterone. This hormone helps prepare the uterine lining for implantation. If fertilization does not occur, the corpus luteum degenerates, hormone levels drop, and the next menstrual cycle begins.  The physical and emotional changes that happen during this phase are referred to as premenstrual syndrome (PMS).


Understanding Menstrual Irregularities
A woman’s menstrual cycle may not always follow a perfect 28-day pattern. Being aware of common irregularities such as longer or shorter cycles, irregular bleeding, and conditions like polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) and endometriosis will help woman recognize the irregular signs, seek medical advice, and maintain a healthy lifestyle that contributes to her overall well-being.

Menstrual Cycle and Fertility Awareness
Understanding the menstrual cycle can empower women to make informed decisions about their reproductive health and family planning. Fertility awareness methods (FAM) enable women to track their menstrual cycles, identify fertile periods, and use this knowledge to either achieve or avoid pregnancy.

FAM techniques include tracking menstrual flow, monitoring basal body temperature, observing changes in cervical mucus consistency, and using ovulation predictor kits. These methods can also provide insights into hormonal imbalances or irregularities that may warrant medical attention.

(Image courtesy of https://byjus.com/biology/menstrual-cycle/)

Understanding and embracing a woman’s menstrual cycle is crucial for her overall well-being, reproductive health, and empowerment. By educating ourselves and others about this natural process, we can break the barriers of stigma and ignorance surrounding menstruation. Let us celebrate the incredible strength and resilience of women and work together towards a world where menstruation is seen as a normal and respected part of life.

Here at Two Lines (formerly Advice & Aid), we care about every aspect of a woman’s body. We are truly here to offer care for your health. If you want to speak to one of our nurses about what’s going on with your body – whether that is periods, pregnancy or post-abortion care – it’s as simple as clicking the button and scheduling your free appointment. We’re here for you.


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