Self-tests: what they are and how they work!

What are self-tests?

Self-tests are medical devices designed for home use, allowing anyone to perform quick, discreet, and reliable clinical tests from the comfort of their own home. These tests detect specific markers in the body—such as hormones, proteins, pathogens, or biochemical changes—through simple biological samples: urine, blood, or saliva.

The COVID-19 pandemic has popularized the use of self-tests, but their usefulness goes far beyond that. Today, they are an essential tool for monitoring health, enabling early detection of imbalances, and facilitating access to clinical information without the need for travel or long waits.

How do self-tests work?

Most self-tests operate with chromatographic (lateral flow) immunoassay technology :

  1. Collection of a biological sample (urine, blood or saliva)

  2. Application of the sample to the test device

  3. Chemical reaction with specific antibodies

  4. Read results in minutes using colored lines or digital indicators

Common examples:

  • Pregnancy tests: Detect the hCG hormone in urine

  • Ovulation tests: Identify the peak of the LH hormone

  • Menopause tests: Measure high levels of FSH

  • Infection tests: Detect bacteria or inflammatory markers

Benefits of self-tests

  1. Privacy and Convenience

    • Take the test wherever and whenever you want, without exposing your privacy

  2. Speed ​​and Efficiency

    • Results in minutes, no waiting for appointments or travel

  3. Prevention and Early Detection

    • Identify physiological changes before they become serious problems

  4. User Autonomy

    • Take control of your health with immediate and clear information

  5. Reducing Pressure on Health Services

    • Home screenings free up medical resources for urgent cases

Most Common Types of Self-Tests



Test Type What It Detects Sample Used
Pregnancy hCG hormone Urine
Ovulation LH surge Urine
Menopause FSH levels Urine
Men's Health SP-10 protein Semen
Vaginal pH Acidity levels Vaginal secretions
Urinary Tract Infection Leukocytes, nitrites Urine
COVID-19 Viral antigens Nasal secretions

Why Are Self-Tests So Useful?

The pandemic has transformed the way we approach health monitoring. Self-testing is here to stay because:

  • Democratize access to clinical information

  • They enable informed decisions quickly

  • They are especially valuable in areas with few medical resources.

  • They reduce anxiety through immediate responses

Studies show that people who use self-tests tend to be more proactive about their health and seek medical help more quickly when needed.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Are self-tests reliable?
Yes, when performed as instructed and with clinically validated products. Reliability typically hovers around 95–99% for most tests.

2. Does a self-test replace a medical consultation?
No. These are initial screening tools. Abnormal results or persistent symptoms should always be evaluated by a professional.

3. Are self-tests covered by the NHS?
Currently, most are non-reimbursable, but the cost is usually affordable.

4. How to choose a good self-test?
Check:

  • Clinical validation

  • Clear instructions in Portuguese

  • Expiration date

  • CE marked

Conclusion: The Evolution of Health Care

Self-tests represent a quiet revolution in the way we manage our health. Combining accessible technology, scientific accuracy, and convenience, they have become indispensable companions for millions of people around the world.

At Autotest - The Original , we pride ourselves on offering devices that meet the highest quality standards, with clear instructions in Portuguese and dedicated customer support.

[ Discover Our Self-Tests ]

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