Final answer:
Beta hCG is a quantitative blood test for pregnancy and is more accurate by measuring exact hCG hormone levels. A negative result on a lateral-flow pregnancy test is indicated by a band on the control line only. Hormonal contraceptives are generally more effective than barrier methods.
Step-by-step explanation:
Beta hCG (human chorionic gonadotropin) is a quantitative blood test for pregnancy, which is considered to be more accurate than qualitative tests. It measures the exact levels of hCG hormone produced by the chorion of the zygote, which is important for maintaining the corpus luteum and keeping progesterone levels elevated during pregnancy. If in a lateral-flow pregnancy test, you see a blue band on the control line and no band on the test line, this is likely a negative test for pregnancy.
Comparatively, short term contraceptive methods are also categorized based on their mechanism of action with hormonal contraceptives generally being more effective than barrier methods.