Pregnancy testing

MinuteClinic providers can assess pregnancy symptoms and collect a urine or blood sample to test for hCG levels to check whether you're pregnant. They can do this any time there's a question of whether you're pregnant, even if you don’t have symptoms.

Your provider can review your medical history, conduct the screening and refer you for additional testing and diagnosis if necessary. They can also educate you about prenatal vitamins and services such as birth control consultation.

1. You may have to answer a few questions about symptoms to help us prepare for your visit prior to scheduling your appointment.
   
2. Check-in varies depending on how you scheduled your appointment.

   
   If you made your appointment online:

   Check in using the email or text message we sent to confirm your appointment. If you prefer to check in using the electronic kiosk, make sure you have your confirmation code.
   
   If you made your appointment in the clinic:

   Sign in at the electronic kiosk.
   
   
3. When it's time for your appointment, a provider will call your name.
   
4. Your provider will conduct a thorough examination based on your reason for visit, presenting symptoms and health history. Charges will be based on examination and services provided during the visit.
   
5. At the end of your visit, you are provided with a visit summary, a receipt and educational material about your diagnosis. At your request, we can send your primary care provider information about your visit.

Taking a pregnancy test isn't difficult, but there are some things you can do to make it easier. When you have your appointment, your MinuteClinic provider will ask when you had your last period. It's a good idea to write this down so you don't forget. If you're not sure, you can let the provider know an estimate, such as about six weeks ago.

A pregnancy test at MinuteClinic can be done by a urine sample. You will need to urinate in a cup, and the provider will test the urine to see how much human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) is present. Consider scheduling your appointment as early in the day as possible, when your urine hCG levels are at their highest for the day. It can be helpful to avoid drinking too many fluids before your test, which can dilute the urine. It's a good idea to avoid using the bathroom for a couple of hours before your test so you have enough urine for the sample.

If a MinuteClinic provider recommends doing a blood test, you will need to be hydrated. To avoid lightheadedness, it’s also a good idea to eat a light snack before your appointment.

If any of these pregnancy symptoms are noticeable, discuss them with your health care provider. They might indicate that you're pregnant:

• A missed period
• Sensitive and swollen breasts
• Tiredness and feeling exhausted
• Urinating more than normal
• Nausea and vomiting