If you think you might be pregnant, wanting an answer right away is natural.
However, the timing of a pregnancy test can greatly affect how reliable the result will be. Testing too early can give a false negative, meaning you’re pregnant but the test is telling you you’re not due to early hormone levels.
Waiting for the right moment and understanding how testing works can help you get a pregnancy test result you can trust.
At Crossroads Women’s Center, we provide a calm, professional space where you can receive lab-quality pregnancy testing and ultrasounds at no cost. Our team is here to help you navigate this period with clarity and support.
We invite you to schedule a free, confidential appointment for a lab-quality pregnancy test and ultrasound.
How Pregnancy Tests Work
Pregnancy tests detect a hormone called human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG), which your body begins producing after a fertilized egg implants in the uterus, usually 6-12 days after conception. Early in pregnancy, hCG levels double approximately every three days. Testing before implantation or before hCG has reached a detectable level can result in a negative test even if pregnancy has occurred.
When Testing Is Most Accurate
For most people, a reliable time to take a pregnancy test is at least one day after a missed period. By this point, pregnancy hormones are typically present at levels high enough to be detected.
First-morning urine is ideal for testing, as it contains the most concentrated hormone levels. Avoid drinking excessive fluids beforehand, which can dilute your urine and reduce accuracy.
However, if you receive a negative result but your period doesn’t arrive, test again in a couple days to a week. If your period still doesn’t arrive, talking with a doctor can help pinpoint why your period is late. You could have an irregular period.
Confirming Pregnancy Medically
A positive home test is an important first step, but medical confirmation is essential. An ultrasound can verify that the pregnancy is located in the uterus, detect a heartbeat, and provide an estimate of gestational age. This step ensures that any complications, such as ectopic pregnancy or early miscarriage, are identified promptly.
Get Accurate Answers and Support
Waiting for test results can be stressful, but you don’t have to face it alone. At Crossroads Women’s Center, our services include free, confidential pregnancy testing, ultrasounds, STD testing/treatment, and options consultations.
Our team is here to provide clear medical information in a private, supportive setting, helping you take the next steps with confidence.
Contact us today to schedule your free appointment and get the answers you need.