PREGNANCY TEST

• When a woman becomes pregnant, a hormone called human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) is released into her bloodstream.

• Pregnancy tests are used to detect any presence of hCG in the urine.

Early detection of a pregnancy offers numerous advantages for both the mother and the foetus. It enables the mother to provide optimal care for the foetus by following a healthy diet and avoiding alcohol, cigarettes and other potentially harmful factors.

It is also beneficial for early detection of foetal abnormalities or other pregnancy complications, especially if the mother is considered at a higher risk - i.e. over the age of forty or has a hereditary condition.