When you suspect you might be pregnant or have just confirmed it, the next step is often deciding what kind of test or scan you need. While both pregnancy tests and pregnancy scans are used during pregnancy, they serve different purposes and are done at different stages. Here's what you need to know:
What is a Pregnancy Test?
A pregnancy test is usually the first step in confirming pregnancy. It checks for the presence of a hormone called human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) in your urine or blood.
Types of Pregnancy Tests:
- Urine Test (Home or Clinic): The common stick test. You pee on it, and it detects hCG.
- Blood Test (Clinic): Done in a lab. It can detect pregnancy earlier and with more accuracy than urine tests.
When to Take a Pregnancy Test:
- From the first day of your missed period, or at least 2 weeks after unprotected sex.
What it Tells You:
- Yes or No – whether you're pregnant or not.
What is a Pregnancy Scan?
A pregnancy scan, also known as an obstetric ultrasound scan, is an imaging test that uses sound waves to create pictures of the growing baby inside your womb. It’s non-invasive and safe for both mother and baby.
Types of Pregnancy Scans:
- Early Viability Scan (2 to 3 weeks after missing the menses ): Confirms baby’s heartbeat, number of babies, and location of pregnancy.
- Dating Scan (10–14 weeks): Estimates due date.
- Anomaly Scan (18–22 weeks): Checks baby’s development and major organs.
- Growth Scan (third trimester): Checks baby’s size, position, and well-being.
What it Tells You:
- Confirms a normal pregnancy.
- Shows baby’s heartbeat, development, and position.
- Detects problems early like ectopic pregnancy, miscarriage, or multiple pregnancy.
🔍 Key Differences at a Glance:
| Feature | Pregnancy Test | Pregnancy Scan |
|---|---|---|
| When done | As early as 1–2 weeks after conception | 2 weeks after missing the menses and throughout pregnancy |
| Method | Urine or blood test | Ultrasound (pelvic or transvaginal) |
| What it detects | hCG hormone in the body | Physical image of baby and womb |
| Purpose | To confirm pregnancy | To monitor the health and progress of pregnancy |
| Available at | Pharmacy, home, clinic | Hospitals, clinics, scan centers |
Final Thoughts
In simple terms, a pregnancy test tells you if you’re pregnant, while a pregnancy scan shows you what’s going on inside your womb.
At Mascot Healthcare, we offer both pregnancy tests and ultrasound scans to help you start your journey into motherhood confidently. Whether you want to confirm a pregnancy or check on your baby's development, our trained professionals are here to support you every step of the way.
👉 Walk in today or click the WhatsApp button to book your pregnancy scan or test. No stress, no waiting; just care.