A pregnancy test designed to detect the pregnancy hormone, human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG), in urine at low concentrations, potentially days before a missed period. This allows individuals to learn about a possible pregnancy sooner than traditional tests. For example, some tests may claim to provide results up to six days before a missed period.
Access to such timely information can be empowering, allowing individuals to make informed decisions about their health and future. Early awareness of a pregnancy facilitates timely prenatal care, which is crucial for both maternal and fetal well-being. Historically, confirming pregnancy often involved waiting weeks after a missed period or relying on less reliable methods. Modern testing technology provides significantly improved accuracy and speed, reducing anxiety and uncertainty during this critical time.