DiagCor's test can be done as early as in the eighth week of pregnancy, compared with about 15 to 16 weeks for an ultrasound scan, doctors say.

Since the new blood test could deliver an answer so early - before a pregnancy is showing or the baby is kicking - it might make getting an abortion easier, several observers said.

If you still haven't gotten your period early this week a home pregnancy test should give you a definitive answer.