Pregnancy tests vary in sensitivity. Some tests can detect a pregnancy on the first day of your missed period, while others take longer. According to the experts, waiting at least a day or two after your missed period before testing is best.
If your periods are irregular, you should wait 5 to 7 days.
Why Should I Wait?
When a woman becomes pregnant, her body produces a hormone called hCG. Within a few days, this hormone builds rapidly in her body, eventually entering her urine and bloodstream. If a pregnancy test detects hCG in your urine or blood, you are pregnant.
Can I Take a Home Pregnancy Test?
Home pregnancy tests are reliable if taken correctly. When you take a home pregnancy test, be sure to follow these directions:
- Check the expiration date
- Read the instructions thoroughly before beginning the test
- Take the test first thing in the morning when your urine is most concentrated
- Don’t test before a day or two after your expected period
- Wait the recommended amount of time before checking the results
- Retest in 3 to 5 days to verify the results
My Test is Positive, Now What?
A pregnancy test only indicates the possibility of pregnancy. We recommend an ultrasound scan to verify if your pregnancy is developing.
Although we do not offer ultrasound scans, we may be able to provide a referral for a free ultrasound and cover the cost of transportation to obtain it. Ask about your referral when you come for your pregnancy test.
Why Do I Need an Ultrasound?
An ultrasound answers three critical questions:
- Is my pregnancy developing, or have I miscarried? Experts estimate as many as 26% of all pregnancies end in a miscarriage. Getting a positive pregnancy test result is possible even if you are no longer pregnant because it takes a woman’s body time to return to pre-pregnancy hormone levels.
- How far along am I? Knowing the number of weeks you have been pregnant determines your options.
- Where is my pregnancy located? Although rare, some pregnancies form outside the uterus. This type of pregnancy is called ectopic and can be life-threatening.
Get a Free and Confidential Pregnancy Test
If you want a free and confidential pregnancy test, come to HopePlace. Our trained client advocates will assist you in taking the test so you can be confident in the results. If you’ve already taken a test, come to us to retest.
You can conveniently schedule an appointment online or call or text us at (870) 352-8506. We want you to get the information you need to make a confident decision for your future. How can we help you today?