How soon can I take a pregnancy test?

Bottom lineTake a home pregnancy test on or after the first day of your missed period (about 2 weeks after ovulation) for a reliable result, because tests detect hCG that only rises after implantation; earlier testing risks false negatives. Use first-morning urine for early tests, retest in 2 to 3 days if negative with no period, and note a faint line usually still counts as positive.

For a reliable result, take a home pregnancy test on or after the first day of your missed period, which is about 2 weeks after ovulation. Some tests claim earlier detection, but accuracy is lower.

Why this timing

Home tests detect hCG, which only rises after implantation (6 to 12 days after ovulation) and then doubles every couple of days. Before there's enough hCG, you'll get a false negative even if pregnant.

Your options

• Most reliable: the day your period is due or later
• Early tests: some detect a few days before your missed period, but false negatives are common
• Blood tests (at a clinic) can detect pregnancy slightly earlier than urine tests

Tips for accuracy

• Use first-morning urine for the most concentrated hCG when testing early
• Follow the timing instructions exactly
• If negative but your period doesn't come, retest in 2 to 3 days
• A faint line usually still means positive

When to see a doctor

• A positive result - to begin prenatal care
• Ongoing missed periods with negative tests
• Possible pregnancy with pain or bleeding

See how many days after ovulation can I test and track your expected period in Femora.

Femora predicts your period date so you know the earliest reliable day to test.