Global Saliva Pregnancy Kits market was valued US $221.5 Million in 2022 and is expected to reach US $399.8 Million by 2032, growing at a CAGR of 6.11% during the forecast period 2023-2032.

The introduction of the SalistickTM saliva pregnancy test in the United Kingdom marks a significant achievement for both Abingdon Health PLC, headquartered in York, and Salignostics. The arrival of the SalistickTM represents a pivotal moment in the development of at-home pregnancy testing, facilitating the expansion of market reach for both companies. Furthermore, this launch of a saliva-based pregnancy test in the UK has fortified Abingdon Health PLC's market position.

Additionally, other firms engaged in the development or release of saliva-based pregnancy tests should seize this opportunity by dedicating resources to research and development, forming partnerships with healthcare providers, and implementing robust marketing strategies targeted towards women. The introduction of the SaliStick could potentially intensify competition within the pregnancy test market, potentially leading to lower prices and enhanced product quality across the board. It also has the potential to unlock fresh market prospects for pregnancy test manufacturers. Furthermore, the launch of the SaliStick pregnancy test has had a positive impact on the pregnancy detection kits market.

Factors Driving the Saliva Pregnancy Kits Market

Increasing demand for a convenient and hygienic method to test pregnancy

The increasing demand for a convenient and hygienic method to test pregnancy can be attributed to several factors that reflect evolving consumer preferences and healthcare trends.

Many individuals value privacy and discretion when it comes to pregnancy testing. Traditional urine-based tests can be invasive and may require individuals to handle and dispose of urine samples, which can be uncomfortable and potentially embarrassing. Saliva-based tests offer a more discreet and non-invasive alternative, allowing users to collect samples discreetly and without the need for restroom facilities. Saliva pregnancy tests are easy to use, often involving a simple process of collecting a saliva sample with a swab or dropper. This ease of use makes them accessible to a wide range of users, including those who may find traditional pregnancy tests cumbersome or confusing.

Saliva tests can contribute to reduced environmental impact compared to urine-based tests. They often involve less packaging and do not require the use of plastic cups or disposable sticks, aligning with growing concerns about sustainability and eco-friendliness. In healthcare settings, including clinics and hospitals, there is an increasing emphasis on infection control and hygiene. Saliva-based tests can be seen as a safer option since they do not involve handling bodily fluids and can be conducted with minimal risk of contamination.

Advances in technology have enabled the development of accurate and reliable saliva pregnancy tests. As consumers become more tech-savvy and accustomed to using innovative solutions, they may gravitate toward these modern testing methods. Saliva-based pregnancy tests have demonstrated accuracy comparable to urine-based tests, which is crucial for gaining consumer trust. Many individuals seek reliable results when confirming or ruling out pregnancy.

As consumers increasingly demand options and alternatives in healthcare, having a choice between different types of pregnancy tests, including saliva-based ones, aligns with the principle of patient-centered care. Offering a variety of testing methods caters to different preferences and needs. In some cultures or societies, there may be specific taboos or preferences regarding the handling of bodily fluids. Saliva tests can address such cultural sensitivities and social considerations.

Challenges

Some challenges associated with saliva pregnancy kits are:

• Sensitivity and Accuracy: While saliva pregnancy tests can be accurate, they may not be as sensitive as urine-based tests, particularly in detecting pregnancy in its early stages. Some users may prefer the higher sensitivity of urine tests for very early detection.

• Timing: Saliva tests often require specific timing, such as waiting for saliva to dry or analysing it at a particular point in the menstrual cycle. This timing requirement can be less convenient for some users compared to urine tests, which can be taken at any time of the day.

• Cost: Saliva pregnancy test kits can sometimes be more expensive than traditional urine-based tests. The technology and materials used in these tests can contribute to higher manufacturing costs, which may be passed on to consumers.

• Availability and Recognition: Saliva pregnancy tests may not be as readily available as urine tests in all regions or stores. Additionally, some individuals may be more familiar with and trust urine-based tests due to their longstanding presence in the market.

• Limited Options: There are fewer brands and types of saliva pregnancy tests available compared to urine tests, limiting consumer choice and competition in the market.

• Complexity: Some saliva tests require microscopic analysis, digital interpretation, or smartphone apps for results, which can be seen as more complex than the straightforward visual results provided by many urine-based tests.

• User Error: Like all tests, saliva pregnancy tests can yield inaccurate results if not used correctly. Users may misinterpret patterns or not follow instructions precisely, leading to false results.

• Delayed Results: Saliva tests may take longer to provide results due to the drying or analysis process, while urine tests typically offer results within minutes.

• Cultural and Societal Factors: Cultural norms and societal beliefs may affect the acceptability and usage of saliva pregnancy tests. In some cultures, there may be a preference for specific types of tests or rituals associated with pregnancy testing.

• Market Familiarity: Many consumers are more familiar with and trust urine-based tests due to their long history of use and marketing. Convincing consumers to switch to saliva tests may require significant marketing efforts.

• Regulatory Approval: Achieving regulatory approval for saliva pregnancy tests in some regions can be challenging, and manufacturers must meet stringent criteria for safety and accuracy.

• Competing Technologies: Saliva tests face competition not only from urine-based tests but also from emerging technologies such as digital pregnancy tests and mobile apps that claim to provide accurate results.

Impact of COVID-19

'Salistick,' a saliva-based pregnancy test kit, was developed by Salignostics Limited, a startup based in Jerusalem. This innovative solution empowers women to perform pregnancy tests at their convenience, eliminating the need to visit a restroom. Remarkably, this technology is rooted in the same principles that underlie the creation of COVID-19 testing kits. The saliva-based pregnancy test represents the latest advancement in the extensive and intriguing history of pregnancy detection methods. This ground breaking product has the capability to determine pregnancy solely from a woman's saliva. To use the test effectively, a woman places a foam-tipped stick from the kit in her mouth for a few seconds, much like using a thermometer. This action collects a saliva sample, which is subsequently used to generate the test results.

By Type

Microscope-based Test Kits segment accounted for the largest market share in 2023, which is anticipated to witness highest growth rate during the forecast period. Microscope-based test kits often leverage advanced microscopy techniques, allowing for high sensitivity and specificity in detecting and identifying target substances or analytes. This is particularly important in fields such as medical diagnostics and life sciences. Some microscope-based test kits are designed for point-of-care testing, allowing for rapid and on-site analysis of samples. This is particularly valuable in situations where quick diagnostic results are crucial, such as in emergency settings or remote healthcare facilities.

By Distribution channel

Retail pharmacies segment anticipated to witness highest growth rate during the forecast period. Selling saliva pregnancy kits in retail pharmacies is a common and effective distribution channel. Pharmacies are easily accessible to consumers, and the presence of knowledgeable staff can help provide guidance and answer questions about the product. However, leveraging online retail platforms allows for broad reach and accessibility. Many consumers prefer the convenience of purchasing healthcare products online, and it provides the opportunity to offer a wider range of information, reviews, and customer support.

By End-users

Individuals (At-Home) segment anticipated to witness highest growth rate during the forecast period. The primary demographic for saliva pregnancy kits includes women in their reproductive years who are sexually active and may be planning or preventing pregnancy. Women and couples actively trying to conceive are a significant end user group for saliva pregnancy kits. These individuals often use these kits to track ovulation and increase their chances of becoming pregnant.

By Regions

By region, the market is divided into North America, Europe, APAC, and Others. Others is further divided into Middle East and South America.

In the forecast period, Europe is projected to experience growth in the saliva pregnancy kits market and will be followed by North America. As the regional availability of the product makes a strong impact on the market. For instance, Abingdon initially introduced the Salistick in the United Kingdom and Ireland, making it available at 400 Superdrug locations and online.

Abingdon highlighted that approximately 12.5 million pregnancy tests were conducted in the UK in 2022. Furthermore, it pointed out that the global market for pregnancy test kits, in 2022, had a valuation of US$ 1.70 billion and is projected to grow to US$ 2.28 billion by 2028.

On September 22, 2023, Abingdon Health revealed that Tesco, a major player in the grocery industry, would introduce the 'Salistick,' a saliva-based pregnancy test, in 298 of its physical stores and on its online platform, starting in late August. Abingdon highlighted that the focus of the Tesco launch would be primarily on its larger physical stores and its online shopping platform.

Competitive Landscape

The competitive landscape of the saliva pregnancy kits market involves assessing the competitive landscape to understand the strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats of the industry. The saliva pregnancy kits market is at initial stage of inception. Only a few players are present and working in the market. Although companies are investing a huge amount on research and development, product development, strong distribution and promotion. Abington Health is the only company that came up with key product development and adopting innovative strategies to gain strong market hold.

Recent Developments in the Saliva Pregnancy Kits Market

• In August 2023, In the United Kingdom, the groundbreaking SaliStick, the world's inaugural saliva-based pregnancy test, made its debut. This innovative test asserts its ability to ascertain pregnancy through a straightforward "spit test." Employing patented technology, it achieves sensitive detection of the pregnancy hormone hCG, generated after the fertilized egg's implantation. Subsequently, this hormone migrates from the bloodstream to saliva, where it becomes detectable. As a result, women are offered a more convenient and sanitary method for pregnancy testing.