How to Use Your HCG Pregnancy Test Strips

Step-by-Step Video Guide

Watch this quick video to see exactly how the test works, from start to finish.

What Is This Test For?

The HCG pregnancy test detects human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) — a hormone produced by your body shortly after a fertilised egg implants in the uterus. In early pregnancy, hCG levels rise quickly and can usually be detected in urine around the time of your missed period.

This at-home strip is designed to give you a clear, fast result — with two lines indicating a likely pregnancy, even if the second line is faint. A faint line can simply mean you're testing early, when hCG levels are just starting to rise.

💬 If your test is negative but your period hasn’t arrived, wait a few days and try again. hCG levels vary from person to person, and testing too early is a common reason for false negatives.

👉 Not sure what your result means — or when to test again?

Read the full hCG guide →

From what’s inside the pouch to how to read your results — everything you need in one place. Whether it’s your first time testing or you just need a quick refresher, this section walks you through exactly how to use your Maia Baby HCG pregnancy test strips. You’ll learn what comes in the pack, how to collect your sample, how to test correctly, and how to interpret your results with confidence.We'll also cover helpful tips, what to do next based on your result — and give you access to the full factory PDF if you want it.

📦 What’s in the Pouch

Each test pouch includes:

  • One HCG test strip
  • One desiccant (discard after opening)
  • Paper instructions (PDF version available below)

You’ll also need:

  • A clean, dry cup for urine
  • A timer or clock

⚠️ Before You Begin
  • For in vitro diagnostic use only
  • Use immediately after opening
  • Do not reuse
  • Store between 4°C and 30°C (39°F to 86°F)
  • Do not freeze
  • Keep out of reach of children
  • Don’t use if pouch is damaged or expired



💧 When (and How) to Collect Urine

You can test at any time of day, but first morning urine is usually best — it contains the highest concentration of hCG.

Make sure your urine sample is at room temperature before you begin. Collect it in a clean, dry plastic or glass cup.

📝 How to Use the Test
  • Let the pouch and urine sample reach room temperature (15–30°C)
  • Remove the test strip from the sealed pouch
  • Hold the strip with arrows pointing downward and dip it vertically into your urine sample for 5 seconds

    → Do not dip past the MAX line
  • Lay the strip flat on a clean, dry, non-absorbent surface
  • Wait 5 minutes, then read the result

    → Do not interpret after 5 minutes

🔍 Reading the Results

✅ Positive (Pregnant):

Two coloured lines appear — one in the Control (C) zone and one in the Test (T) zone

→ You are likely pregnant

❌ Negative (Not Pregnant):

Only one coloured line appears in the Control (C) zone

→ hCG not detected

⚠️ Invalid:

No lines appear, or only a line in the Test (T) zone

→ Test failed. Please use a new strip

💡 Helpful Notes
  • A faint test line is still a positive — early pregnancy often starts with a lighter line
  • hCG builds gradually. If your result is negative but your period doesn’t come, test again in 2–3 days
  • Testing with diluted urine or later in the day may reduce accuracy
  • Some fertility medications containing hCG can cause a false positive
  • This test is not intended for use as a method of contraception

💬 What to Do After Your Result
  • If your result is positive:

    - Book an appointment with your GP or midwife to confirm your pregnancy and begin early antenatal care.

  • If your result is negative:

    - And your period is still late or symptoms persist, wait a few days and try again. It’s common for hormone levels to vary from person to person and cycle to cycle.

📄 Want the full manufacturer instructions?

You can download the original instruction leaflet as a PDF below:

👉 Download Full HCG Instructions (PDF)

Timing Really Matters

When to try — and why it makes a difference.
We suggest using Maia Baby at the first sign of your LH surge — then again 18 to 36 hours later if you're trying more than once in the same cycle. Sperm take time to travel, so the goal is to have them waiting when the egg is released.

👉 [Start with our TTC timing guide →]


📚 Or explore more blog posts on mindset, sperm health, and ovulation tracking →

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Still Have Questions?

Trying to conceive can feel overwhelming — and it’s completely normal to have questions, hesitations, or need a little extra clarity.Whether you're unsure if this is the right method for you, have specific questions about timing, or just want to feel more supported, we’re here to help.You’re not alone — and you don’t have to figure it all out by yourself.