Did you miss your period and think you might be pregnant? You probably have many questions about your potential pregnancy.
First, start with a lab-quality pregnancy test. We’re here to help answer your questions about pregnancy testing and beyond.
How Do Pregnancy Tests Work?
Pregnancy tests detect the hormone human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) in urine or blood. The placenta produces hCG after the fertilized egg implants into the wall of the uterus. It takes time for hCG to rise to detectable levels to receive a positive pregnancy test result.
When Should I Take A Pregnancy Test?
According to the Mayo Clinic, the best time to take a pregnancy test is at least one day after your missed period. This length of time gives the hCG hormone time to build and be detected by home pregnancy tests. Testing too early could lead to a false-negative result.
Try testing first thing in the morning for the best results. During this time of day, urine is the most concentrated, making hCG easier to detect. However, you can take a pregnancy test any time of the day; just be sure not to dilute your urine by drinking lots of fluids beforehand.
Irregular Periods
Do you experience late periods often? It’s hard to know if you’ve missed a period if this is the case.
According to the FDA, most pregnancy tests can detect the pregnancy hormone, hCG, in urine 12-15 days after ovulation for women with 28-day cycles. Testing three weeks after sex or four weeks after your last period should be adequate time for accurate pregnancy test results.
No-Cost Pregnancy Tests
Your first step to clarity about your potential pregnancy is taking a pregnancy test. If you think you might be pregnant, make an appointment for a no-cost lab-quality pregnancy test at Woodbury Options for Women.
Our team of advocates and healthcare professionals offers non-judgmental, compassionate care.