Find HS Code and trade information for pregnancy tests

Pregnancy Tests

Pregnancy tests are devices used to detect the presence of human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) in urine or blood, indicating a potential pregnancy. hCG is a hormone produced by the placenta shortly after implantation of a fertilized egg in the uterus.

Material

• Test Strip/Cassette: Primarily composed of absorbent materials like cellulose. The reactive area contains antibodies specific to hCG, often monoclonal antibodies.
• Housing: Typically plastic, providing structural support and ease of handling.
• Reagents: Contain antibodies, buffer solutions, and indicators for visualization of results. Some tests utilize colorimetric or fluorescent indicators.
• Blood Tests: Standard laboratory equipment and reagents for blood sample analysis.

Purpose

The primary purpose of a pregnancy test is to determine if a woman is pregnant. This allows for early prenatal care and informed decision-making.

Function

Pregnancy tests function by detecting the presence of hCG.

• Urine Tests: Urine is applied to an absorbent strip. If hCG is present, it binds to the antibodies on the strip, triggering a visible change (e.g., a line appearing) indicating a positive result.
• Blood Tests: Blood samples are analyzed in a laboratory to quantify the level of hCG. These tests are more sensitive than urine tests and can detect pregnancy earlier.

Usage Scenarios

• Missed Period: The most common scenario, prompting a test to determine if pregnancy is the cause.
• Early Pregnancy Symptoms: Symptoms like nausea, fatigue, and frequent urination can lead to testing.
• After Unprotected Sex: Testing can provide reassurance or prompt early medical attention.
• Monitoring Pregnancy: Blood tests are used to monitor hCG levels to assess the health of the pregnancy, particularly in cases of suspected ectopic pregnancy or miscarriage.

Common Types

• Home Urine Tests: Most widely available, offering convenience and privacy. Available in various formats:
  • Midstream Tests: Urine is directly applied to the test strip.
  • Dipstick Tests: The test strip is dipped into a urine sample.
  • Digital Tests: Provide a clear "Pregnant" or "Not Pregnant" readout.
• Blood Tests: Performed in a medical laboratory.
  • Qualitative Blood Tests: Detect the presence or absence of hCG.
  • Quantitative Blood Tests (Beta-hCG): Measure the exact amount of hCG, useful for early pregnancy monitoring and detecting complications.
• Early Detection Tests: Designed to detect lower levels of hCG, allowing for testing several days before a missed period, though results may be less accurate.

Pregnancy tests are diagnostic reagents typically prepared on a backing or in kit form, used for detecting the presence of specific hormones to indicate pregnancy. They fall under the category of laboratory reagents used for diagnostic purposes.

Here are the relevant HS codes based on the provided reference material:

• 3822190080: This HS code covers diagnostic or laboratory reagents on a backing, prepared diagnostic or laboratory reagents whether or not on a backing, whether or not put up in the form of kits, other than those of heading 3006. The total tax rate is 30.0% (base tariff 0.0%, additional tariff 0.0%, additional tariff after 2025.4.2: 30.0%). This is a broad category encompassing many diagnostic tests.
• 3822190030: This HS code specifically covers diagnostic or laboratory reagents on a backing, prepared diagnostic or laboratory reagents whether or not on a backing, whether or not put up in the form of kits, containing antigens or antisera. The total tax rate is 30.0% (base tariff 0.0%, additional tariff 0.0%, additional tariff after 2025.4.2: 30.0%). Pregnancy tests often utilize antibodies to detect the pregnancy hormone hCG, making this code potentially applicable.

Important Note: The distinction between 3822190080 and 3822190030 hinges on whether the test contains antigens or antisera. If the pregnancy test utilizes these components, 3822190030 is the more appropriate code. If it does not, 3822190080 would be used.