when to take a pregnancy test?

To determine the best time to take a pregnancy test, several factors need to be considered, including the type of test, your menstrual cycle, and the levels of the hormone human Chorionic Gonadotropin (hCG) in your body.

After Missing a Period

The most accurate and reliable time to take a pregnancy test is after you have missed your period. This is because hCG levels are typically high enough to be detected by most home pregnancy tests by this time354.

Early Detection Tests

If you want to test earlier, you can use early-detection pregnancy tests. These tests can detect lower levels of hCG and can provide results:

• As early as 6 days before your missed period (or 5 days before your expected period)245.
• However, it's important to note that the accuracy of these tests is lower when taken this early, and you may get false negative results if hCG levels are still too low245.

Timing Relative to Ovulation

For women with a regular 28-day menstrual cycle, you can typically take a standard pregnancy test 12-15 days after ovulation. Early-detection tests can be taken even sooner2.

General Guidelines

• After Ovulation: Wait at least 7-10 days after ovulation for hCG levels to be high enough for detection5.
• After Unprotected Sex: If you have had unprotected sex, it is best to wait until after your period is due or at least 21 days after the incident if you have an irregular cycle5.

Best Time of Day

If you are testing before your period is due, it is recommended to take the test with your first morning urine, as hCG levels are most concentrated at this time4.

Repeating the Test

If you get a negative result and still suspect you might be pregnant, it is advisable to repeat the test a few days later or when your period is due, as hCG levels may not have been high enough for detection earlier345.

By following these guidelines, you can increase the accuracy of your pregnancy test results.