The timing of when you take a pregnancy test matters. If you suspect you’re pregnant, try waiting at least one day after your missed period to take a pregnancy test to receive an accurate result.

How Pregnancy Tests Work

Pregnancy tests work by detecting a hormone called human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) in urine or blood.

Your body begins producing hCG shortly after the fertilized egg implants into the wall of the uterus, known as implantation. However, it can take another 5-7 days for your pregnancy test to deliver a positive result.

While home pregnancy tests are typically reliable, user error is always possible.

To be sure, follow up your home pregnancy test with no-cost pregnancy testing at True Women’s Center. Schedule an appointment today. If you’re pregnant, we can help with your next steps.

The Best Time of Day to Take a Pregnancy Test

Choose the best time of day to take a pregnancy test. For the most accurate results, take a pregnancy test first thing in the morning after waking up. At this time of day, your urine will be the most concentrated, making hCG easier to detect.

If you take a test later in the day, ensure it’s been at least three hours since you last emptied your bladder.

Do You Have Irregular Periods?

If you struggle with irregular periods, it can be a challenge to know if you missed your period. The FDA shares that most pregnancy tests can detect the pregnancy hormone, hCG, in urine 12-15 days after ovulation for women with 28-day cycles.

For accurate results with irregular periods, wait 36 days after your last menstrual period or four weeks after you had sex to take a pregnancy test.

What If It’s Positive?

After receiving a positive pregnancy test result at True Women’s Center, an ultrasound is your next step to getting answers. An ultrasound scan will provide you with essential pregnancy details and reveal your pregnancy options.

Make a no-cost appointment at True Women’s Center today for no-cost pregnancy confirmation services. We’re here for you.