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| - Last Updated on September 3, 2024 by Dr Priyamvada
Quick Take
A website through its page claims that through the use of vinegar, one can check pregnancy at home. After thorough research we found no evidence to support the vinegar pregnancy test, and therefore, we term this as false.
The Claim
According to Dr Sapna Khare, if you mix a few drops of vinegar in the morning’s first urine and the urine changes colour and becomes foamy, then it may indicate pregnancy.
Fact Check
Why are homemade pregnancy tests still prevalent in Indian households?
Before the invention of at-home pregnancy test kits (hCG testing kits) there were several popular ways to detect pregnancy through DIY methods. These homemade pregnancy detection techniques still hold relevance in many households.
In India, the widespread use of homemade pregnancy tests is the result of a multifaceted and complex interplay of various factors. Most significant among these is the prevalence of misinformation and the unfortunate persistence of stigma regarding reproductive health. Another contributing factor is the limited access to accurate information regarding pregnancy testing and contraception, leaving many women without the vital knowledge to make informed choices. Furthermore, societal norms dictate there should be privacy related to discussions concerning pregnancy and abortion contribute to the deterioration of women’s autonomy, restricting their ability to make decisions regarding their own bodies freely. This lack of autonomy is compounded by the widespread dearth of education and awareness with regard to reproductive health, particularly in rural regions.
Cultural beliefs and traditions also exert a considerable influence, with some women opting for homemade tests based on anecdotal evidence rather than seeking professional medical guidance. One of the popular notions is that if the mother is having pimples during pregnancy, it means she is having a girl. But, again this isn’t true and holds no relevance. Moreover, accessibility to healthcare facilities, especially in remote areas, worsens these challenges, further limiting women’s options. Additionally, the stigma and perceived lack of empathy from healthcare providers, especially in cases of adolescent pregnancies, unwanted pregnancies or sexual assault, can discourage women from seeking the necessary medical assistance.
Can you check pregnancy at home using just vinegar?
No, you can not test pregnancy using just vinegar. Naturally, urine is not clear and if you haven’t consumed much fluid, your urine may appear darker than usual. Consequently, the natural colour of your urine can cause the vinegar to change colour, which has nothing to do with hCG levels (commonly called as the pregnancy hormone) and isn’t indicative of pregnancy. Lack of scientific evidence leads to the conclusion that vinegar does not react with hCG specifically to help detect pregnancy.
We have also debunked myths surrounding other DIY/homemade techniques for pregnancy testing using ingredients like sugar, baking soda, shampoo, and garlic. All of these stand false and we discourage their usage for something as significant as pregnancy detection.
What do the doctors check for during pregnancy testing?
During pregnancy testing, doctors check for important factors to confirm pregnancy and assess maternal and foetal health. This includes measuring beta-human chorionic gonadotropin (beta-hCG) levels in urine or blood, conducting ultrasound scans to visualise the foetus and assess development, and performing physical examinations to identify pregnancy signs and evaluate general health. Additionally, doctors gather medical history to examine risk factors, enquire about pregnancy symptoms like nausea and fatigue, and conduct lab tests to screen for complications such as infections and blood type compatibility. All in all, pregnancy testing involves a comprehensive approach combining physical exams, lab tests, and USG imaging to ensure the well-being of mother and baby throughout the pregnancy.
What is the best way to detect pregnancy at home?
We consulted Dr Shiba Mittal, an experienced Obstetrician and Gynecologist, for pregnancy testing methods. According to her, “The most reliable method for confirming pregnancy in women is to test for beta-hCG levels in both urine and blood.” She elaborates, “Pregnancy kits, whether used at home or in a medical setting, detect HCG in urine. The accuracy of home tests depends on the precision of the testing process. Blood tests are particularly useful for detecting pregnancy in its early stages. In addition to test results, we also consider physical symptoms such as nausea, fatigue, breast tenderness, and changes in menstrual patterns.” Therefore, seeking medical advice for confirming pregnancy and obtaining guidance is always advisable.
When we approached Dr Saumya, an Obstetrician and Gynecologist, regarding the reliability of homemade pregnancy tests and the most effective methods for detecting pregnancy, she explained, “Unfortunately, homemade pregnancy tests/methods are widely prevalent among both rural and urban populations due to the stigma associated with unwanted pregnancy or the lack of autonomy for women. However, these DIY methods lack any scientific basis and should not be relied upon for confirming pregnancy, given the significance of the matter. Pregnancy testing kits (hCG tests) readily available at local pharmacies are generally reliable and accurate. Nevertheless, following an hCG test, it is advisable to undergo a confirmatory test—beta hCG test using a blood sample—at a healthcare facility under the supervision of a qualified doctor. Additionally, an ultrasound of the lower abdomen can be useful in confirming pregnancy, determining foetal age, identifying any abnormalities, and detecting the presence of multiple pregnancies.”
We also sought the opinion of Dr Pooja Luthra, an Obstetrician and Gynaecologist, regarding the most effective method for detecting pregnancy. She emphasised, “Utilising vinegar to detect pregnancy at home is not a reliable approach. Despite numerous old wives’ tales circulating, they lack scientific validation. For dependable results, I recommend utilising commercially available pregnancy test kits, which detect the presence of the hormone hCG in urine. These tests have undergone extensive testing and have been demonstrated to be highly accurate when utilised correctly. It is advisable to seek medical attention promptly following hCG testing to proceed with appropriate professional care.”
Why is early detection of pregnancy so important?
Early detection of pregnancy is important for several reasons. Firstly, it allows for the prompt initiation of prenatal care (refers to the medical care ‘before birth’). It includes essential check-ups, screenings, and guidance from doctors to monitor the pregnancy’s progress and address any potential complications. Secondly, early detection enables doctors to closely monitor the mother’s health, identify risk factors, and intervene promptly to optimise outcomes for the mother and the baby. Additionally, it provides an opportunity for nutritional guidance, emotional support, and preparation for the baby’s arrival.
Importantly, early detection is crucial in cases of unwanted pregnancy, allowing women to consider options like medical abortion, which can be initiated only in the early stages. Delayed detection may limit the opportunity for medical abortion, necessitating surgical abortion or facing barriers to abortion altogether. Therefore, early detection not only facilitates access to prenatal care and support but also empowers women to make timely and informed decisions about their reproductive health.
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