HCG Detection Method The best specimen for testing is the first morning urine because it has a higher concentration and contains more human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG), resulting in more accurate test results. For test strips, immerse the end marked "MAX" into the urine (not exceeding the horizontal line below the arrow at the bottom of the strip), keeping it immersed for 10 seconds. When the sample moves to the test zone, remove it and place it flat on a clean, flat surface. For test cards, use a dropper to add 2-3 drops of urine sample into the sample well on the test card. For test pens, remove the cap, hold the handle, and either directly urinate on the absorbent stick or immerse the end with the arrow into the urine (not exceeding the horizontal line below the arrow at the bottom of the strip) for 10 seconds. When the sample moves to the test zone, remove it and place it flat on a clean, flat surface; alternatively, leave it in the urine cup until reading the results. Wait for the appearance of the red bands. Check the results after 5 minutes. Reading after 10 minutes is invalid. Interpretation of Test Results Positive: Two red bands appear, one in the test zone (T) and the other in the control zone (C). Negative: Only one red band appears in the control zone (C), with no red band in the test zone (T). Invalid: No red band appears in the control zone (C) after 5 minutes, indicating incorrect operation or deterioration of the test strip/card/pen. In such cases, carefully reread the instructions and retest using a new test strip/card/pen. Tips for Use Incorrect usage may affect result accuracy, such as wetting the test zone (result display window) or insufficient urine volume, leading to false-negative results. When the hCG concentration is high, the test line may be very clear, while the color of the control line may become weak, which is a normal result. In extreme cases such as molar pregnancy or choriocarcinoma, where hCG levels in the body are excessively high, urine tests may not show positive results. HCG tests are only a preliminary screening. For women of childbearing age who experience amenorrhea, do not rely solely on self-testing to determine pregnancy. Instead, seek comprehensive medical examination, especially for weak positive results, to take appropriate measures. |