How Long Should You Wait After a Missed Period to Take a Pregnancy Test?

December 16, 2025

Waiting to take a pregnancy test can be stressful, especially when your period is late or your cycles are irregular.

At Nova Women’s Health, we provide free services, including confidential pregnancy testing and guidance, so you don’t have to navigate this uncertainty alone. Understanding the best timing can help you get accurate results and peace of mind.

Day One of a Missed Period

For most home pregnancy tests, the manufacturer-claimed accuracy rate of up to 99% is based on testing after the day your period was expected.

Pregnancy tests work by detecting the hormone human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG), which begins to build up in your body after a fertilized egg implants in the uterus (about 10-14 days after fertilization) or at least one day after your missed period. Testing once your period is due gives the hCG level a chance to be high enough for the test to register a positive result.

Avoiding a False Negative

Testing too early is the most common reason for a false-negative result (a negative result when you are, in fact, pregnant). If you test before the first day of your missed period, your hCG levels may be present but too low for the test strip to pick up. Because hCG usually doubles every 48 to 72 hours in early pregnancy, waiting until your expected period, or a few days beyond, significantly increases the chance of an accurate result.

Irregular Cycles

If your menstrual cycles are irregular, determining a “missed period” can be tricky. In this scenario, it’s best to take a pregnancy test at least 21 days after the last time you had unprotected sex.

Maximize Test Accuracy

Want the best possible reading?

• Test first thing in the morning when the pregnancy hormone levels are most concentrated.
• Don’t overhydrate before the test, as diluted urine can impact the accuracy.
• Scrupulously follow the step-by-step directions for the specific test brand you are using.

Next Steps

If your test is positive, or if you remain uncertain about your results, Nova Women’s Health can help. We offer confidential testing, counseling, and ultrasounds to accurately date your pregnancy, all at no cost. Our compassionate team is here to provide guidance and support every step of the way.

Schedule a free appointment with Nova Women’s Health today to get accurate answers and the care you deserve.