Urine pregnancy test (card test)
Quick answer: A urine pregnancy test checks for hCG (human chorionic gonadotropin), a hormone made after an embryo implants in the womb. It is used to confirm a suspected pregnancy, for example after a missed period.
- SampleUrine
- TakesA few minutes
- Before the testA first morning urine sample is best in early pregnancy, as it is more concentrated.
- In fertility careAfter IVF or IUI, clinics usually prefer a blood beta hCG test on a set day, as it is more sensitive and gives a number.
How the test is done
- 1You collect urine in a clean, dry container, ideally first-morning urine
- 2A few drops are placed in the test card's sample window
- 3The card is left flat for the time stated on the kit
- 4Staff read the lines in the result window
What your results can mean
Reading your report
A faint line can still be positive, while testing too early can give a false negative; confirm any result with your doctor.
If the result is outside the usual range
A positive result means hCG was found, which usually points to pregnancy, including an early pregnancy loss or a pregnancy outside the womb. A negative result can occur if the test is done too early or the urine is very dilute.
Who usually has this test
Women with a missed period, women before X-rays or some medicines, and women after IVF or IUI checking for pregnancy.
Risks and aftercare
There are no risks; if the result is unclear, a repeat test after a few days or a blood test may be advised.
Names and options
Also called: UPT, pregnancy card test, urine hCG test, home pregnancy test
Listed by the hospital as
- PREGNANCY TEST (CARD), URINE
Where this test fits in fertility care
- 1Fertility work-up
- 2Screening before IVF or IUI
- 3During treatment
- 4After embryo transferThis test
- 5Pregnancy check-ups
- 6If treatment has not worked
The usual order. See every test at each stage →
Questions about this test
How soon can a urine pregnancy test detect pregnancy?
Most urine tests are reliable from the first day of a missed period. Testing earlier can give a negative result even if you are pregnant. If the result is negative and your period still does not come, repeat the test after a few days.
Can the IVF trigger injection give a false positive urine test?
Yes. The trigger injection used in IVF and IUI often contains hCG, which can show up on a urine test for several days, sometimes up to about two weeks. This is why clinics ask you to wait for the blood test on the day they give you.
Can a urine pregnancy test show where the pregnancy is?
No. It only shows that hCG is present, not whether the pregnancy is in the womb. An ultrasound scan, and sometimes blood hCG tests, are needed for that.
Related tests
Tamara Hospital & IVF Centre, Rajajinagar
34/3, 10th Cross Road, opp. Vardhaka Sardar Patel School, 1st N Block, 2nd Stage, Rajajinagar, Bengaluru 560010
The hospital is open 24 hours. Call before you come to check the timing for your scan or sample collection.
Get directions ↗IVF Pulse fertility care at Tamara Hospital →
Reception
Waiting area
IVF lab
This page explains each test in general terms so you know what to expect. It is not medical advice: your doctor decides which tests you need and what your results mean. Reference ranges differ between laboratories. Updated 4 November 2026.