When to Take a Pregnancy Test

When is the earliest you can take a pregnancy test? Evidence-based guide to timing, accuracy, and choosing the right test.

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The Short Answer

For the most accurate results, wait until the day of your expected period or later. Testing earlier can work with sensitive tests, but the risk of a false negative is significantly higher.

How Pregnancy Tests Work

Home pregnancy tests detect human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG), a hormone produced after a fertilized egg implants in the uterine lining. Implantation typically occurs 6–12 days after ovulation, with most implantation happening 8–10 days post-ovulation.

After implantation, hCG levels start low and double approximately every 48–72 hours. Most home tests can detect hCG at concentrations of 20–25 mIU/mL, though some "early detection" tests claim sensitivity at 6.3 mIU/mL.

Testing Timeline

6–8 days past ovulation (DPO): Too early. Even if implantation has occurred, hCG levels are likely too low for detection. High risk of false negatives.

9–11 DPO: Some early tests may detect pregnancy, but accuracy is still limited. A negative result at this point does not rule out pregnancy.

12–14 DPO (around the time of expected period): Most tests will be accurate. This is when ACOG recommends testing.

After a missed period: Highest accuracy. If you get a negative result after a missed period but still don't get your period, retest in a few days or consult your doctor.

Pop Culture Moment

Lorde's song "Clearblue" from her 2025 album Virgin captures the raw emotional intensity of taking a pregnancy test—that flood of hope, fear, and vulnerability compressed into a few minutes of waiting. It's a moment millions of TTC couples know intimately.

Listen to Virgin on vinyl →  |  Get the CD →  |  Digital download →

Recommended: Home Pregnancy Tests

For early testing (before your missed period), look for tests with high sensitivity (low mIU/mL threshold). For testing after your missed period, any reputable brand will be accurate.

Browse Pregnancy Tests on Amazon →

Tips for Accurate Results

  • Use first morning urine. It's the most concentrated, giving you the best chance of detecting low hCG levels.
  • Don't drink excessive fluids before testing. Diluted urine can reduce hCG concentration.
  • Follow the test instructions exactly. Read the result within the specified time window.
  • A faint line is still a positive. Any visible second line (even very faint) indicates hCG is present.

This guide was last reviewed on January 18, 2026.