Pregnancy Test

Strange subject for a child page
No, not at all. Who wants to be pregnant is usually keen to know as early as possible, whether you have worked or not. This leads not infrequently to the corresponding application errors and disappointments. So here is some info on the function and use of pregnancy tests.

How do pregnancy tests?
A pregnancy test detects the hormone hCG, which is produced from an embryo taken root. The hormone is exclusively produced by a pregnancy. It is possible this hormone in blood and urine.

Urine
The urine tests are less sensitive than a test from the blood as achieved, the concentration of pregnancy hormone in urine, the blood levels only after a lag of two days. Therefore, one can perform a urine test is reasonably well until the day of the absence of rule, that is less than 14 days after ovulation. For only then are the concentrations in the urine is high enough for a reliable test. This is indicated by reputable manufacturers of pregnancy tests out explicitly.

So-called Frühtests or pre-tests are never reliable, and should not be performed if you want to have a reliable result. As the morning urine is more concentrated than the urine during the day (due to fluid intake diluted), for such a test morning urine should be used.

The tests usually consist of a control strip that changes color every time the test is usable (eg not yet expired) and the actual test strip, which reacts specifically to the hCG. Thus if both color strips, then this means that first the test is working and 2 a pregnancy. The result is a yes / no result. The amount of urine contained hCG can not be determined, however, the test strip of the more intense the higher the concentration of the pregnancy hormone is.

Blood test
In this test directly determines the concentration of hCG in the blood. So I can not specify exact levels of the hormone. Theoretically, the evidence from the blood is already quite possible one week after ovulation or the puncture of the egg cells. But at such an early date the statement is too vague, so the earliest reasonable time after ovulation seems to be for such a provision for 12 days. Usually people wait 14-15 days after ovulation. In a test tube fertilization, the calculation refers to the day of puncture, which corresponds to the ovulation.

Other pregnancy signs
Reliable other signs of early pregnancy are not. Only in the late 5th Week of pregnancy (Pregnancy Calendar) can pregnancy be detected by ultrasound. Until then the pregnancy is detected, therefore only through the blood or urine and, therefore, a so-called biochemical pregnancy.

Error

• As hCG and ovulation-inducing hormone (LH) biochemically very similar, it can at the time of LHPeak, so come the rise of this hormone to a positive test. Conversely, one with test strips to Ovulationsnachweis hCG detected in the urine, they should not be exploited as pregnancy tests. They are too unreliable.
• It is often a hormone treatment in the second half of the cycle yet given hCG to trigger ovulation at first, later to support the luteal phase. If the distance is such a hiss and a test injection of short (one week or less), then there is a positive result, even though no pregnancy.

Dilemma of the "hold"
After a fertility treatment one would naturally like to know as early as possible, whether it "worked". Not only after a fertility treatment even among those couples who try naturally (which is often forgotten here in the forum) on hold after ovulation / sex with a lot of patience is to be seen. If, however, so a urine test at a very early stage, then this is either a positive one and ponders whether this is possibly the remains of an hCG injection, or it is negative and it is hoped that it is so due to the early stage .

In a child forum you have very rarely seen women who made a test and then did not start to brood of such. Therefore, there exists the sometimes legitimate view that 'pee tests are stupid. " This is certainly unfair to those tests, as they for the early stage of their deployment so can anything. Here is a table showing the average hCG values (from the blood) in early pregnancy.

HCG table. Normal values in early pregnancy
Time value of normal range

To assess whether the pregnancy is intact, so much the absolute HCG values of significance, but the increase of the hormone. They say most of that was to take place at the beginning of a pregnancy, a doubling of blood every two days.

Signs of Pregnancy

Whether or not you were looking to get pregnant, little tell-tale signs in your body may be indicative that you are, indeed, carrying a baby. Some signs of pregnancy can't be ignored while others could be indicative of a great number of other physiological as well as psychological conditions. Many couples have been trying to get pregnant for so long that they will blow the tiniest symptom out of proportion. However, some common signs of pregnancy would include:

Step 1: Positive Pregnancy Test

Obviously the most accurate way to determine whether or not you are pregnant would be to have a pregnancy test. There are at home kits that can be quite accurate within a few days of having missed a regular period. Doctors have a range of tests to determine pregnancy that could include providing blood and/or urine samples. Some of these tests are so accurate that they can almost pinpoint the exact date of conception.

Step 2: Spotting and/or Light Bleeding

Some women don't have regular menstrual cycles so the first sign they are likely to notice is a feeling of nausea, often accompanied by extreme bouts of vomiting. Over the years this phenomenon has been referred to as 'morning sickness,' but as any mother will tell you, it isn't limited to mornings by any stretch of the imagination. If you suddenly find yourself nauseous for a period of days without any other signs of illness, you might want to get a pregnancy test as soon as possible.

Step 3: Nausea

Many women notice spotting or light bleeding when their normal menstrual cycle is due. While this is not always a true indicator of pregnancy because it could be the result of anything from undue stress to some kind of illness, it is one of the most common early signs of pregnancy.

Step 4: Cramping

Another common sign is cramping in the lower pelvic area. Many women mistake this for period cramps and are quite confused when they don't start bleeding right away. As a matter of fact, many women who spot instead of having a full period, accompanied by cramping, write it off to a light month and go on about their business never knowing they have conceived.
Step 5: Unusually Tired

Due to major hormonal fluctuations in the body, drowsiness or feeling unusually tired is one of the signs of pregnancy. Hormones are responsible for a great number of biological functions and when there is an upset in the amounts being secreted, one of the most common symptoms is extreme drowsiness. If you suddenly find yourself more lackluster and sluggish than normal, it could very well mean you are pregnant. In any case, it is best to consult your doctor because sudden, unexplained tiredness is indicative of something that needs attention.

Step 6: Missed Menstrual Cycle

For many years, this was the first sign that clued women into the fact that they could very well be pregnant. Again, there are other physiological and psychological conditions that could interfere with your menstrual cycle so it is always wise to talk to your doctor. Pregnancy is not the only condition that causes fluctuations in hormones. Illness or psychological stress can also upset the cycle so it is all the more important to discover the cause of missing a period.

Step 7: Increased Urination

Having the sensation that you continually need to find a restroom to relieve yourself is another one of the common signs of pregnancy. As the uterus starts to swell and expand, more pressure is placed on the bladder. As a result, pregnant women have the need to urinate more frequently than normal. This too is a sign that can either be indicative of some other underlying condition, or it can be missed altogether if you are prone to bladder infections. Some women even write it off as having had too much to drink.

Step 8: Higher Than Normal Basal Temperature

Women don't usually go around taking their temperature on a daily basis unless they are trying to determine ovulation, so this is one of the signs of being pregnant that you would be actively looking for. If your basal temperature stays slightly higher than normal over the period of days or weeks, it could very well be indicative of pregnancy.

Realistically speaking, most of these signs could actually be brought about by a large number of other factors. The most accurate way to determine whether or not you are truly pregnant is to have a bona fide pregnancy test. However, the odds of being pregnant increase if more than a few of these signs of pregnancy happen simultaneously. In any event, it is always best to talk to your doctor because if you are pregnant, you will want to start prenatal care as soon as possible.

Pregnancy blood test, what happens when certain

A simple, quick and inexpensive blood test may soon be all that is required to detect chromosomal abnormalities that lead to conditions like Down’s syndrome.

Dutch researchers are confident that they are on the verge of an accurate procedure that will test the mum’s blood for abnormalities in the foetus. Current methods such as amniocentesis are invasive and run the risk of triggering a miscarriage so this test would be far safer for the baby.

The study is set to continue for two more years and researchers hope to increase its accuracy. “At the moment, the reliability of the test is about 80% due to false negative results, but we are working to improve the accuracy,” said Dr Suzanna Frints who led the study.

The test could be particularly useful for older mums-to-be and those who are at a high risk of an abnormal pregnancy. It could even become a regular part of all ante-natal check ups.

“It is the holy grail of prenatal diagnosis to try and find a reliable method of diagnosing Down’s syndrome and other chromosome abnormalities without doing invasive testing,” Dr Suzanna explained, but added that it was “important to emphasise that it is some years away”.

What are the symptoms of cervical cancer ?

In the early stages of cervical cancer, there are usually no symptoms. The only way to detect changes is if you have a Pap smear.

If you have any abnormal vaginal bleeding (such as intermittent bleeding, bleeding after sex or after menopause), abnormal or persistent vaginal discharge (bloody or offensive), or pelvic pain, you should see your general practitioner.

What is a Pap smear ?

In 1928, Dr. Papanicolaou discovered that cells in the cervix change in appearance before the cancer. The Pap smear, named after the doctor is used to determine whether changes in the cervix (neck of the uterus) at the top of the vagina. It is a tool for screening to find early signs of cancer could develop in the future.

The Pap smear is a simple procedure. Cells taken from the cervix and placed (smeared) on the frame. This image is sent to the laboratory where cells are tested for anything unusual. If abnormal changes are available on the examination, further tests are carried out to determine whether treatment is necessary.

The Pap smear is not for the diagnosis of cancer, but also for early detection of changes that could be cancer.

A Pap smear takes only a few minutes. No drugs or anesthesia is necessary, and this can be done in a doctor, nurse or worker women.

The Pap smear does not, whether there are other problems on the reproductive system. This is not about control of sexually transmitted infections. Women who fear that may have a sexually transmitted infection should discuss with your doctor about testing and treatment available.

What are the symptoms of cervical cancer?
In the early stages of cervical cancer, are usually no symptoms. The only way to detect changes as a Pap smear.

If you have abnormal vaginal bleeding (including intermittent bleeding, bleeding after sex or after menopause), or persistent abnormal vaginal discharge (bloody or offensive) or pelvic pain, you should contact your doctor.

Who is at risk?
The risk of cervical cancer increases with age. All women with a uterus who sometimes sex at some point of their lives at risk of cervical cancer. About half of all new cases of cervical cancer diagnosed each year in women over 50 years. Women in this age group are less likely than younger women to have regular Pap smears. More women aged over 50 die from cervical cancer because their cancer diagnosed at a later stage, when treatment is difficult.

What is the cause of cervical cancer?
Human Papilloma Virus (HPV), a sexually transmitted infection that in most cases (80%) was approved in the body that the immune system 8-14 months. The presence of HPV can be detected by Pap smears. Some women who have persistent infection, the development of abnormalities of the cervix. It is therefore important to ensure a regular Pap smear.

How effective is the Pap smear?
Regular Pap smears every two years can help prevent up to 90 percent of the most common form of cervical cancer.

Like all screening procedures, Pap smear has limitations. Sometimes this is not detect early cell changes as it did not contain enough smear abnormal cells. Sometimes samples are difficult to interpret because of blood or mucus on the slide. If this occurs, a doctor or nurse may require that you are in the Pap smear.

How often should I get the Pap smear?
All women over 18 years old, who once noted that sex is a Pap smear every two years, although no longer have sex. When a woman starts sexual activity at an earlier age, should start within two years from the first sexual intercourse.

Given that the most common type of cervical cancer usually takes 10 years to develop, there is little advantage to Pap smear more frequently than once every two years.

Your doctor may recommend more frequent Pap smears as the smears showed significant cell changes, or you have problems such as bleeding or pain after sex.

I got through menopause, do I still need a Pap smear?
Yes, the risk, as cervical cancer increases with age, it is important to take Pap smears every two years, even after menopause.

I need a Pap smear if I have a hysterectomy?
If your hysterectomy was only partial, and your uterus is removed, you still need a Pap smear every two years. If you have a total hysterectomy, that is your uterus and cervix is removed, it will still need a Pap smear. Ask your doctor to be absolutely sure.

By women with disabilities have Pap smears?
Yes, all women with a uterus who sometimes sex at the risk of cervical cancer. One of the main objectives of the National Cervical Screening Program is that its services are available for all Australian women.

In all countries and territories, women have access to free telephone line (13 15 56) for further information on cervical cancer screening, including access issues. This provides women with disabilities may be directed to a doctor who is best able to meet their individual needs.

In several countries and areas, the strategy was adopted to meet the needs of women with disabilities who wish to have a Pap smear, including:

• Purchase of adjustable examination couches;

• Development of facilities specially designed for women with physical (including visual and hearing) and / or mental disabilities;

• Reference to the Pap smear providers who can meet the specific needs of women in terms of physical and mental disability.

For more information on access to the National Cervical Screening Program services, ring 13 15 56 (for the price of a local call). Alternatively, contact your state or territory of the National Cervical Screening Program on

When should I stop Pap smears?
If you are 70 years or older and have two normal Pap smears in the last five years, you do not hold with the Pap smear, if you want to do. Women over 70 years of age who never had a Pap smear, or those with a Pap smear may be appointed by the screened.

How much does it cost?
There are two benefits in the Pap smear - doctor or nurse practitioner practice standards consultation fee and the Pap smear pathology test. Many doctors, hospitals, health centers and pathology services (laboratory) Bill collective 'that case, there is the cost of the Pap smear or consultation.

If charges are made, the cost to you, the difference between the Medicare rebate and doctors and providers of pathology (laboratory) charges. In some cases, you will be asked to pay the full amount and then apply for a rebate from Medicare.

Ask for information about where the meeting.

Where can I go for a Pap smear?
If you want a meeting with Pap smear, please contact:

• Your family doctor;

• A community or women's health centers;

• A family planning and sexual health clinic;

• A female nurse, or

• The Aboriginal Medical Service.

Pap Smears

A Pap smear is a test used to look for changes in the cells of the cervix that indicate cervical cancer or conditions that may develop into cancer. Pap smear does not diagnose cancer, but they detect 95% of cervical cancer at a stage where they are not visible with the naked eye. They can then be treated and are almost always curable.

Although Pap smear test is not specific for other gynecological problems or sexually transmitted diseases, Pap smears, the presence of abnormal cells that further testing or research would be needed.


When should I get a pap smear?

It is recommended that all women receive a Pap smear is done within 3 years are sexually active or by age 21. Pap smears should be done every year for at least 3 years, and if they are all normal, your health care provider may change your schedule for Pap smear every 2-3 years. Discuss with your health provider what they recommend for a Pap smear schedule as some still encourage them to be made annually.

Even if your health care provider recommends a Pap smear every 2-3 years, you need to your gynecologist every year for pelvic cavity exams, information on women's health issues and breast exams.

Women need a Pap smear in the middle of their monthly cycle or about 10-20 days after the LMP started. At least 2 days before the test, women should avoid anything in the vagina with sexual intercourse, douching, vaginal cream / suppositories or spermicides. These can interfere with the results of the test and cause an abnormal result.


What happens during a pap smear?

As part of your pelvic cavity exam, your doctor will use a small spatula, brush or swab to take a few cells of the cervix. You may feel some discomfort, but it's not painful. The cells are placed on a microscope slide to a lab for results. You can send your doctor a Pap smear without intercourse, douching or not does not make use of all products and / or drugs in the vaginal area for at least two days prior to the investigation.


What do the results of a pap smear mean?

A negative result means that your cervix is normal.

A positive result indicates the presence of abnormal cells. Your doctor may also call this an abnormal Pap. Remember that this is a test, not a diagnosis. A positive result does not prove that you have cancer or dysplasia (pre-cancerous condition). But it usually means that you should have further evaluation, such as a colposcopy (microscope used to see in the womb) or a biopsy (the removal of a small amount of tissue from the cervix). Your doctor will discuss the results with you.

One in ten Pap smears are an exception, but most are not serious. Further testing will be required to determine whether you have an infection, inflammation, infection, trichomonas, herpes or human papilloma virus.

Researchers believe that cervical cancer is directly related to the human papillomavirus (HPV). There are more than 100 different types of HPV in about 30 species which are spread through sexual contact and may lead to cervical cancer. HPV is the most important risk factor for cervical cancer, but most women who receive treatment for abnormal cells caused by HPV, not the development of cervical cancer.

In 2003 the FDA approved a test that can be done in combination with a Pap smear to determine if the HPV virus.The HPV DNA test can detect high risk types of HPV before abnormal cells can be detected on the cervix. This screening is recommended for women over the age of 30, at an increased risk of HPV infection turning in pre-cancerous cells.

Some give a negative Pap smear sample because of recent sexual activity or use of vaginal creams and showers. Whatever the reason, an abnormal Pap Pap smear is different in a few months. With a proper screening, cervical cancer is preventable and should be avoided.
What if I'm pregnant, and I have an abnormal pap smear?

A Pap smear is a routine part of your pre-natal care and does not constitute a risk to the fetus. If you have an abnormal Pap during pregnancy your doctor to discuss treatments that can be safely done during pregnancy, or, depending on the diagnosis, delay treatment until after your baby is born. If your doctor suggests a colposcopy and cervical biopsy, there may be slight bleeding from the outer portion of the uterus, but this is not a serious complication.

If your doctor about an internal biopsy in the endo cervical canal, there may be a slight chance of a pregnancy complication. But your health care provider is your best interests in mind and will only do what is medically necessary.

Your doctor may request additional Pap smears during your pregnancy, if necessary. Many times the birth of your baby will wash away any abnormal cervical cells.


When can a woman stop pap smear performed?

According to the National Cancer Institute, women over the age of 70 years and have a history of regular pap smears are very unlikely that the development of cervical cancer and can discuss the possibility of no further need pap smears. Women who have had a hysterectomy with both the uterus and cervix removed, for reasons not related to cancer, may also have the option of no further need pap smears.


Who should pap smears often?

Women who take immunosuppressive medication or a condition that weakens the immune system to further pap smears. These women need to discuss what kind of pap smear, they should schedule their caregivers.