Testing, testing...
So, you've done the fun bit. Now it's time to find out if you're having a baby.
Home pregnancy tests can be used two to three weeks after you think you may have conceived or on the first day of your missed period. Use one sooner than this and you may not get a reliable result.
The tests work by detecting the hormone human chorionic gonadotrophin (hCG) in your urine. A chemical in the plastic stick changes colour when it comes into contact with this hormone, so the usual way of testing is to wee on the end of the stick and watch for the result in the little window.
Pregnancy tests are very accurate as long as you use them properly. It's possible to have a 'false negative', when the test says you aren't pregnant when you are. If your period still doesn't arrive, repeat the test or check with your doctor.
It's also possible that a first pregnancy test will show a positive result, but a later one doesn't. Or the test may show a positive but then your period arrives. Your period may be heavier than you're used to, which may mean your pregnancy has been lost. This is a very early miscarriage, and is probably a way of protecting the body from hanging on to a damaged embryo. It doesn't mean you won't conceive again.
You can buy home pregnancy tests online, in the supermarket or at your local chemist.