Are you facing a potential unplanned pregnancy and aren’t quite sure what’s next? We know your emotions are at an all-time high right now, but you are not alone.
For accurate results, the best time to take a pregnancy test is the first day of your missed menstrual period. According to the Mayo Clinic, most pregnancy tests claim to be 99% accurate if you wait to take them at this time.
How Do Pregnancy Tests Work?
Pregnancy tests are very simple and effective. Pregnancy tests detect the amount of HCG in urine or blood. The body needs time to produce hCG (human chorionic gonadotropin) as it builds each day in early pregnancy.
Why Does Timing Matter?
According to the Mayo Clinic, you could get a false negative pregnancy test if you…
- Test too early as it’s harder for the test to detect the HCG hormone. Again, take a home pregnancy test after the first day of a missed period.
- Check the test result too early. Make sure to let the test sit for as long as the directions tell you, and try not to look too soon.
- Take a test later in the day. Try testing early in the morning when you get up! It’s the best time as your urine is most concentrated, and it is easier to detect hCG.
If you receive a negative pregnancy test result but still believe you may be pregnant, take a test one week after your missed period and follow up with a medical professional if necessary. Timing is essential in getting accurate results you can be confident in.
What’s Next if it’s Positive?
Take a deep breath and take one step at a time. Find answers about your pregnancy with a free medical-grade pregnancy test at Birthright. You deserve answers.
Schedule a free and confidential appointment to get started. Our caring team is here to help you along the way.