Waiting to take a pregnancy test can feel endless when you want to know the results now. If you’re looking up this answer online, your wait will be over soon!
Keep reading to learn more or schedule a free pregnancy test at Options Pregnancy Clinic in Branson, Missouri. We’re here to help you find out for sure.
When to Take a Pregnancy Test
Pregnancy tests work by testing for the presence of the hormone human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG). It takes time for this hormone to build up to detectable levels after becoming pregnant.
Most pregnancy tests can provide accurate results by detecting hCG after a missed period, so wait until one day after your missed period to test, but there are some caveats to this.
Early Detection Pregnancy Tests
Early pregnancy tests claim to be more sensitive and can deliver an accurate result, sometimes six days before a missed period. However, make sure to read the fine print.
For instance, Clearblue’s Early Detection Pregnancy Test says it’s only 77% accurate six days before a missed period. This means about 3 in every 10 women who take the early pregnancy test are likely to get false-negative results.
There’s no harm in taking these tests, but be skeptical of a negative result until you miss your period and test again. Sometimes, hCG needs more time to rise, even if you’re using an early detection test.
Negative Tests: When to Believe Them
The biggest issue with taking a pregnancy test too early is receiving a false-negative result. If you receive a negative result and your period hasn’t arrived yet, give it a couple of days to a week longer for hCG to rise and test again.
If your period comes, it’s safe to assume your negative test was correct. Keep in mind that implantation bleeding can happen around your expected period if you’re pregnant, but this is light bleeding or spotting that stops; it’s not a full period.
If you keep receiving negative results but your period hasn’t arrived yet or you think you might be pregnant, you can visit your doctor to assess your situation or order a blood pregnancy test to measure your hCG levels. However, most women can find out for sure with a urine pregnancy test.
Time Will Tell: You’re Almost There
The wait to miss your period can feel long, but it will be here before you know it.
Schedule a free and confidential appointment at Options Pregnancy Clinic to find out. We can also verify your positive pregnancy test with a follow-up test and an ultrasound. We’re here to help during your pregnancy.