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Even though there are several reasons why a
menstrual period might be late, if there is a possibility a woman might be
pregnant, she should have a reliable pregnancy test as soon as possible. Other
causes of a missed period can be stress, illness, change of diet or routine, or
travel.
Most Family Planning
Clinics, doctors and drug stores can do a pregnancy test, using a small amount
of the woman's urine. The woman may give a sample of urine at a clinic or may
take a sample from home. Results are usually ready in a few hours.
A doctor or clinic will keep all
information confidential if you ask. You can also buy a home pregnancy testing
kit at a drug store and do the test done at home.
Occasionally, there are false readings. If
the test results are negative, or not pregnant, but the woman does not have a
menstrual period within two weeks she should have another test done right
away.
If the results are negative, or not
pregnant, and the woman does not want to have a baby, she can talk to a doctor
or counsellor about birth control, to see which method is best for her and her
partner.
If the test is positive, or pregnant, the
woman has two choices: to continue the pregnancy or to terminate it. The message
on Pregnancy Decisions, in the Pregnancy Menu, deals with a woman's choices in
this situation. If you are in this situation, you can also talk with someone
close to you: your partner, a family member or a friend.
For more information about how and where to get a
pregnancy test, you can call a local Planned Parenthood organization or Public
Health Unit .
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