When Should I Take a Pregnancy Test?

If you are concerned you might be pregnant, you might have questions about when to take a pregnancy test. Home pregnancy tests work best taken a week after a woman’s missed period. This page will give you more information on pregnancy testing. 

How Does a Pregnancy Test Work?

When a woman becomes pregnant, a hormone called human chorionic gonadotropin (HCG) is released into her body. Home pregnancy tests work by identifying HCG in a woman’s body through her urine. 

When is it Best to Take a Pregnancy Test?

Pregnancy tests vary in sensitivity, so different brands advertise different timelines for when you can test. To avoid a false response, taking a pregnancy test a week after you miss your period is best. 

If your cycle is irregular, estimating when you should get your period can be challenging. In this case, you should take a pregnancy test 3 weeks after you had sex.

The time of day you take a pregnancy test can also matter. First thing in the morning is the best time of day to take a home pregnancy test because urine is most concentrated when you wake up.

I Tested Positive; Now What?

If you have tested positive and are unsure of what to do next, here is a list of what you need to begin your next steps:

• Get a confirmation pregnancy test. While uncommon, false positives can occur with at-home pregnancy tests. You can set up a free pregnancy test appointment with us to confirm your positive result. 
• Get tested for sexually transmitted diseases (STDs). Some STDs have no symptoms, so getting tested is vital. Treatment for STDs is necessary regardless of the outcome you choose for your pregnancy.
• Get an ultrasound. An ultrasound is a diagnostic test that provides valuable information you need to make a confident choice. An ultrasound will:
  • Confirm viability- about 10-20% of pregnancies end in miscarriage. Knowing if your pregnancy is progressing can affect the choices you need to make.
  • Date the pregnancy- the options available to you depend on how far along your pregnancy is.
  • Locate the pregnancy- sometimes, a pregnancy can grow outside the uterus. This is called an ectopic pregnancy. It can be a life-threatening condition for the woman, requiring immediate medical treatment.

• Get all the facts. Talk to someone trustworthy and knowledgeable at Bella to highlight all the options available to you. 

Let Us Help

At Bella Women’s Center, you can get everything you need to make an informed decision. 

We offer pregnancy testing, STD testing, ultrasounds, and consultation all free of charge. Contact us today to set up your confidential appointment.

FAQs About When to Take a Pregnancy Test

When is the best time to take a pregnancy test?

The best time to take a pregnancy test is about one week after a missed period. This gives your body time to produce detectable levels of the pregnancy hormone (hCG) for the most accurate result.

Can I take a pregnancy test before my missed period?

You can, but results are more likely to be inaccurate that early. If you test before your period and get a negative result, wait a few days and test again or schedule a medical-grade pregnancy test at Bella Women’s Center in Warren.

Does the time of day matter when taking a pregnancy test?

Yes. Taking a pregnancy test first thing in the morning provides the most accurate results because your urine is more concentrated after a night’s rest.

Where can I get a pregnancy test confirmed near Youngstown or Niles?

Bella Women’s Center in Warren provides free, confidential pregnancy testing and ultrasound confirmation for women throughout the Youngstown area, including Niles, Boardman, Girard, and nearby communities. Our licensed medical staff can help you understand your results and next steps.