How Early Can You Take a Pregnancy Test?
If you think you could be pregnant, it’s natural to want to know as soon as possible. Unfortunately, when it comes to pregnancy testing, earlier doesn’t always mean better. Understanding when you can test and when results are most reliable can save you money on pregnancy tests and time concerned about your results.
Taking an at-home test is a good first step, since you can do it privately. If your result is positive, or if you have questions about it, you can call to schedule an appointment with us.
How Pregnancy Tests Detect Pregnancy
Pregnancy tests work by testing for the presence of hCG, a hormone your body produces once a fertilized egg implants in the uterus, about 6 to 10 days after conception. Depending on when you ovulated and when you test, the level of hCG can vary.
While some tests claim to detect pregnancy up to six days before your missed period, early testing is less accurate. Because it takes time for hCG to reach detectable levels, an early test may yield a false-negative result.
Some early-detection tests are only about 77% accurate when taken six days before a missed period. The closer you are to your expected period or the day after it, the better the chance of an accurate result.
If You Choose to Test Early
If you decide to take an early test, use your first-morning urine when hCG levels are most concentrated. Follow the test instructions carefully and avoid drinking excessive amounts of liquid beforehand.
If the result is negative and your period still doesn’t arrive, wait until the day after you miss your period and test again. Your hCG levels might not have been high enough to trigger a positive test the first time, and could return a positive result the second time.
If your period doesn’t arrive and you continue to receive negative pregnancy tests, you may want to talk with your doctor to investigate the cause.
What to Do After a Positive Test
If your at-home test is positive, that’s a great time to reach out and schedule a time with us. Our medical staff can confirm your result with lab-quality testing, answer your questions, and walk you through what comes next in a confidential setting.
Contact us whenever you’re ready.
Pregnancy Testing
Think you're pregnant? Did you miss your period? Maybe your mind is racing a million miles a minute. We understand how surreal this time can feel, but you are stronger than you know. Visit Nova for no-cost, lab-quality pregnancy testing.
Limited Ultrasound
Wondering if you need an ultrasound or what an ultrasound appointment is like? An ultrasound is the second step to clarity after getting positive pregnancy testing results. This step is essential for learning more about your pregnancy options.
STI Testing & Treatment
If you’re sexually active, get tested for STDs today to get the clarity you need. Many STDs do not have immediate symptoms. Our medical team is here to walk with you and help you understand your test results. We offer no-cost limited STD treatments as well.
Pregnancy Testing
Think you're pregnant? Did you miss your period? Maybe your mind is racing a million miles a minute. We understand how surreal this time can feel, but you are stronger than you know. Visit Nova for no-cost, lab-quality pregnancy testing.
Limited Ultrasound
Wondering if you need an ultrasound or what an ultrasound appointment is like? An ultrasound is the second step to clarity after getting positive pregnancy testing results. This step is essential for learning more about your pregnancy options.
STI Testing & Treatment
If you’re sexually active, get tested for STDs today to get the clarity you need. Many STDs do not have immediate symptoms. Our medical team is here to walk with you and help you understand your test results. We offer no-cost limited STD treatments as well.
