Positive Pregnancy Test: Symptoms, Concerns & What to Do

Question
Dr. Rappaport:
I am new to this so forgive me up front. I'm 25 & I decided to take a home pregnancy test first thing this morning when i awoke & it came back positive. I was about a week late and have not been feeling myself.  My breasts have been VERY tender (which is unlike me)& just ache all the time lately.  The strange part of all is it like i have almost had a tummy ache or something since the end of last week (which i never have).  So here's the true question:  How accurate are these tests & should i take it with a grain of salt & say 'Yes' i'm expecting & tell my husband?  Could you please shed some light on this.

Thank you,
Stacey  

Answer
Usually, if you are seven days late for your period and you get a positive pregnancy test at that time, it is quite accurate. If you did it correctly, and the lines were bold and dark, then you are pregnant. The test merely measures the amount of Beta HCG in your urine. If it is there, it is positive and you are pregnant. If it is not there, the test is negative and you are not pregnant. If it was a positive test, you are pregnant. Call an obstetrician and make an appointment for 8 weeks from the first day of your last menstrual period.