You can test for pregnancy most reliably starting from the first day of your missed period. Some sensitive tests may detect pregnancy as early as 4 to 5 days before your expected period (about 10-11 days after ovulation or conception), but for the most accurate result, it is best to wait until you have missed your period, and ideally about a week after the missed period. If your menstrual cycle is irregular or you are unsure of your period date, wait at least 21 days after unprotected sex before testing. Here are key points regarding when to take a pregnancy test:
- Pregnancy hormone (hCG) can be detected from about 6-10 days after ovulation, but it usually takes at least 7-10 days for hCG levels to build up enough for detection.
- Many home pregnancy tests detect hCG as early as 10 days after conception; however, testing too early can lead to false negatives.
- For women with regular cycles, taking a test on the first day of the missed period is the standard recommendation for accuracy.
- Ultra-sensitive tests can detect pregnancy earlier but may have a higher chance of false-negative or unclear results.
- If unsure when your next period is due, wait 21 days after unprotected sex to test.
In summary, the best time to take a pregnancy test is from the first day of a missed period, or about 14 days after ovulation or unprotected intercourse, for the most accurate results.
