What all you need, to do the pregnancy test at home:

• A pregnancy test kit, to perform a test. This is normally available with any chemist/pharmacy shop these days.
• A watch, to see the directed time to check your result.
• A clean cup or a mug, to collect urine for test./li>
• A flat surface, to keep your test tube for best result.

How is the test performed?

• The test needs to be done in the first week (within 7 days of missed periods).
• Check the expiration date on the test and make sure it is still valid.
• When you are ready to test, first read the directions carefully because they may be different from brand to brand. Wash your hands with warm water and soap.
• It is advisable to perform the test first thing in the morning (Early morning sample of urine is preferred) for optimal results, though this is not mandatory.

Collect urine in a clean, dry glass or plastic container. Ensure that there is no detergent or water in the container. Draw out a little urine with a dropper (generally provided with the kit) and just put two drops in the circular test well. Do not drop the urine anywhere on the test tube. Wait for three to five minutes (depending on manufacturer's instructions) and then read the test results. If you are pregnant you may see two lines otherwise only one. Keep in mind that the different tests may display the results differently, so make sure you read in the instructions what shape or symbol you should be looking for.

Precautions

Trying to read the results before the stipulated time or waiting too long, can both lead to inaccurate readings.
If you receive a positive test result, it is important that you make a medical appointment to have the result confirmed.

Other Options

Some newly launched pregnancy test kits can be held directly in the urine stream and do not require you to collect urine in a container. These kits are usually more expensive.

Can the test be falsely positive?

Though very rare, this could happen. Certain drugs, especially drugs used for treatment of infertility, including hCG shots might cause the test to be falsely positive.