In today’s world, the necessity of grab and go products is increasingly paramount. This extends not just to food and drinks, but also to personal health items such as pregnancy tests.
Traditionally, these kits are purchased at pharmacies or grocery stores, but did you know that several gas stations now keep a stock as well?
For those in need of an immediate for one, but are unable to reach or find a convenience store or pharmacy, gas stations may be the unexpected answer.
This article provides a comprehensive guide on which gas stations sell pregnancy tests, intending to help anyone who finds themselves in a position of needing such convenience.
Which gas stations sell pregnancy tests?
Many gas stations do sell pregnancy tests as a convenient option for customers. While the variety of tests might be limited compared to drugstores, you can typically find reliable over the counter tests near the toiletries section.
Keep in mind that the availability of these strips might vary from one gas station to another, so it would be wise to call ahead and inquire about their stock if you’re looking specifically for one.
Major gas station chains in the USA that reportedly sell pregnancy tests include:
- BP
- Exxon
- Shell
- 7-eleven
- Chevron
- Speedway
- Sheetz
- Casey’s
- Kwik trip
These stations typically have associated convenience stores, and they are often open 24/7. This makes them a more reliable option for those looking to buy the test outside regular business hours.
What are some other convenient options for purchasing pregnancy tests?
Besides gas stations, here are other convenient options for purchasing them:
Pharmacies and Drugstores
Most pharmacies and drugstore chains, such as CVS, Walgreens, Rite Aid, and local independent pharmacies, carry a variety of them.
These stores often have dedicated sections for healthcare and personal care products, including test kits and might even offer buy one, get one deals.
Online Retailers
Online retail websites such as Amazon offer a variety of home pregnancy tests, including top-rated brands like Clearblue and First Response.
Online shopping offers the convenience of home delivery, which can be done discreetly. In some cases, there are also offers and discounts available.
Superstores
General merchandise stores like Target, Walmart provide a wide range of test strips, often including store-brand options which can be more cost-effective.
These large stores also typically offer in-store pickup, same-day delivery, and shipping options.
Family Planning Clinics
Family Planning Clinics: If you prefer professional guidance and counseling along with the test, you can visit a family planning clinic or a reproductive health clinic.
They may offer free or low cost pregnancy testing services.
Healthcare Providers:
You can ask your primary doctor or OB-GYN for the test during your medical appointment. Consequently, some urgent care centers and walk-in clinics provide pregnancy testing services.
Tips for choosing and using a pregnancy test
Getting accurate results from a pregnancy test depends on two main factors: careful selection and correct usage. Below are some guidelines to help you in getting a clear and accurate result.
Selection
1. Look for FDA-approval:
Buying an FDA-approved test guarantees you are getting a product that has undergone strict testing and is proven to give reliable results.
2. Consider Sensitivity
The sensitivity of these tests can vary between brands and types. Some tests can detect pregnancy earlier than others because they can easily detect low hCG levels (the hormone produced in early pregnancy).
3. Ease of use
Some tests are easier to use than others. Digital tests, especially can easily interpret results by displaying words like “pregnant” or “not pregnant,” whereas others require the user to interpret lines or symbols.
4. Check the Expiration Date
Ensure that the strip has not expired. Expired tests may not provide accurate results.
5. Select a Trusted Brand
Choose a reputable brand of pregnancy test. Well-known brands often have a higher level of reliability.
Usage
1. Test at the right time
Testing too early might result in a false-negative, so it’s usually recommended to test after a missed period for the most accurate results.
2. Follow instructions
Always follow the instructions included with the strip for the most accurate results. This includes reading the results within the recommended time frame.
3. Use the First-Morning Urine
For the most accurate results, use your first-morning urine when hormone concentrations are typically higher. However, many tests can be used at any time of the day.
4. Collect a Clean Sample
Use a clean dry container to collect your urine sample. Avoid contamination from soap, lotions, or other substances that can interfere with the test.
5. Take Your Time
Follow the specified wait time mentioned in the instructions (usually 3-5 minutes) before checking the results. Do not read the test after the designated time has passed, as it can lead to false results.
6. Take multiple tests
If you are testing early, or if the test line is faint, it may be a good idea to take another pregnancy test two days later as hCG levels double roughly every 48 hours.
7. Interpret Results Correctly
Be familiar with how the specific test displays results. For line tests, a single line indicates a negative result while two lines represent a positive result. For digital tests, the words “pregnant” or “not pregnant” will appear.
8. Retest if Necessary
If you receive a negative result but suspect you might be pregnant, wait a few days and test again. Hormone levels increase as days go by, and testing too early can result in a false negative.
Remember that home pregnancy tests are generally accurate when used correctly. No test is 100% sure. If you receive a positive result or have some questions about the results, it’s best to chat your doctor for further advice and guidance.
How much is a real pregnancy test?
The cost of a pregnancy test can vary widely. Usually, prices range from less than $1 to around $20 for a single strip depending on the brand and added functions.
Tests with digital displays tend to be slightly expensive, with some reaching or exceeding $15. On the other hand, basic strips sold in bulk can be significantly more affordable, with some even costing less than $0.50 per test.
It’s also important to note that more expensive tests don’t necessarily provide more accuracy. While some might offer additional features like digital displays or earlier detection, a lower-cost test can still give a reliable result when used properly.
Can you trust gas station pregnancy tests?
Gas station pregnancy tests are like all other over the counter (OTC) tests designed to detect the presence of pregnancy hormones (hCG) in a woman’s urine.
This means that the test’s accuracy primarily depends on its ability to detect this hormone rather than the place of purchase.
As with any test kit, certain factors can impact results. Timing plays a critical role.
As with any pregnancy test, certain factors can impact results. The timing, especially is very crucial. If you test too early even – when you are pregnant, it’s possible the test will not detect hCG, leading to a false negative result.
While features and design may vary between brands and reflect in the price difference, accuracy is generally not compromised based on cost.
Even inexpensive tests should reliably detect pregnancy once sufficient levels of hCG are present in the urine.
However, bear in mind that while gas station pee sticks should be reasonably reliable, you should always read and follow instructions carefully to ensure accurate results.
If uncertain about the result, consult a healthcare professional or consider obtaining a pregnancy test from a healthcare facility.
Conclusion
It’s clear that many gas stations provide pregnancy tests as part of their product offering due to the convenience they offer in terms of accessibility and ease of purchase.
Prominent chains such as 7-Eleven, Exxon, shell, Chevron and Circle K typically stock a range of pregnancy tests, making them a resource if you quickly need such tests during non-business hours or while traveling.
Nonetheless, even with the convenience, it’s important to note that all, whether from gas stations or other retail outlets, should be used correctly for accurate results.
While the brand, design, and price can differ significantly from the available ones at pharmacies or general stores, the reliability of gas station pee sticks can still be dependable, provided they are used correctly and at the right time.
References:
National Institutes Of Health (Pregnancy tests: a review)
