### Do DIY Toothpaste Pregnancy Tests Actually Work? You might have heard about people using toothpaste as a DIY pregnancy test. The idea is that mixing toothpaste with urine will cause a chemical reaction, such as a change in color or fizzing, which supposedly indicates pregnancy. However, this method is not reliable. Any reaction that occurs is likely due to the acidic nature of urine reacting with ingredients in the toothpaste, not the presence of the pregnancy hormone (hCG). ### Reliable Methods to Test for Pregnancy 1. **Home Pregnancy Tests**: These are available at grocery stores, drugstores, and online. They are designed to detect the pregnancy hormone in urine and are about 99% accurate when used correctly. It's best to take the test one week after a missed period and first thing in the morning when the hormone levels are highest. 2. **Doctor's Urine Test**: Similar to home tests, but the sample is sent to a lab for confirmation. 3. **Blood Test**: Conducted by a doctor, this test can detect pregnancy earlier than a urine test and measures the exact amount of the pregnancy hormone. If you suspect you are pregnant, it's important to use a reliable method to confirm it so you can receive early prenatal care. Community health clinics and Planned Parenthood centers often offer free or low-cost pregnancy tests if you don't have access to a doctor or health insurance.