When To Take A Pregnancy Test After Missed Period?

The earliest and most reliable indication of pregnancy is a missed menstrual period. That said, a missed period doesn’t always mean you're pregnant. There can be various other reasons for it. However, if you've had unprotected sexual intercourse recently, it's important to take a pregnancy test to rule out the possibility of pregnancy.

Taking a pregnancy test can stir a mix of emotions: excitement, anxiety, and nervousness. Still, if you’ve missed your period, it’s important to get tested. You can start with an at-home pregnancy test and follow up with a blood test for confirmation if it's positive. If you're unsure about when to take a pregnancy test after a missed period, refer to our guide.

What is a Pregnancy Test and How Does It Work?

Pregnancy tests work by detecting the hormone human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) in your urine*. During early pregnancy, hCG levels rise rapidly. This hormone is first detectable in your blood and later in your urine, making both blood and urine tests effective in confirming pregnancy. Your healthcare provider may use a blood test to measure the exact levels of hCG present.

In the early stages, hCG production begins gradually and increases as the pregnancy progresses. Most pregnancy tests can detect hCG once it reaches a concentration of 20-50 milli-international units per millilitre (mIU/mL). For this reason, it’s generally recommended to wait about two weeks after a missed period or unprotected intercourse before taking a test.

In many women, hCG levels nearly double every 48 to 72 hours during the first 8 to 10 weeks of pregnancy. However, it's important to understand that hCG levels can vary significantly between individuals, and the rate of increase may differ. If you have concerns about your hCG levels or test results, consult your healthcare provider for guidance.

 READ: Tips to Ensure a Healthy Pregnancy and Delivery

Understanding Different Types of Pregnancy Tests

If you think you might be pregnant or are trying to conceive, you can choose between two main types of pregnancy tests:

• Urine Test (commonly done at home)
• Blood Test (performed in a clinic by a healthcare provider)

Urine tests, especially at-home versions, are the most widely used. These tests detect the presence of the pregnancy hormone hCG in your urine. They are easy to use, affordable, and provide quick results, usually within a few minutes. You can also take a urine test at a clinic if you prefer professional assistance.

Blood tests, on the other hand, measure the exact level of hCG in your bloodstream and can detect pregnancy earlier than urine tests, sometimes even before a missed period. A healthcare provider administers these tests and are especially useful in cases where more precise or early detection is needed.

While both tests check for hCG, blood tests are more sensitive and can give detailed information about hCG levels, which can help assess the health and progression of the pregnancy.

For most people, starting with an at-home urine test is a convenient and reliable first step. A follow-up blood test with your healthcare provider can offer additional clarity and guidance if the result is positive or if you need confirmation or more accurate timing.

When Should I Take a Pregnancy Test?

A missed menstrual period is often the first indication that you might be expecting. However, it’s best not to rush to the pharmacy right away. To reduce the chances of a false negative, it’s ideal to wait at least 14 days after a missed period before taking a pregnancy test. This allows your body enough time to produce sufficient levels of hCG.

So, if you’re wondering, “When to do a pregnancy test after a missed period?” the most accurate time is roughly 14 days after your expected period date, or about two weeks after ovulation.

Testing too early can sometimes result in a false negative, as hCG levels may not yet be high enough to detect. If you're trying to conceive and are uncertain about the timing, remember that patience is key. Waiting at least two weeks after a missed period increases the accuracy of your results.

It’s also important to remember that a missed period isn’t the only early sign of pregnancy. You may experience:

• Fatigue
• Headaches
• Mood swings
• A metallic taste in the mouth
• Breast tenderness
• Frequent urination
• Heightened sensitivity to smells
• Food cravings or aversions
• Mild cramping (often referred to as implantation cramps)
• Light spotting (known as implantation bleeding)

These symptoms can indicate early pregnancy, but they’re not definitive. Many of them can also be caused by stress, illness, or hormonal changes unrelated to pregnancy.

If you suspect you might be pregnant, the best approach is to take a test at the right time and consult your healthcare provider or gynaecologist for confirmation and guidance.

READ: Changes to Expect in Your Body During Pregnancy

When Is the Best Time to Take a Pregnancy Test — Morning, Afternoon, or Evening?

Taking a pregnancy test after a missed period is standard practice, but the timing of the day, morning, afternoon, or evening, can affect accuracy, especially in early pregnancy.

Experts generally recommend taking a urine-based pregnancy test first thing in the morning, using your first urine of the day. This is because morning urine tends to be more concentrated, which can help detect even lower levels of hCG. A more diluted urine sample later in the day, especially after you've had fluids, might miss those early hCG levels and lead to a false negative.

That said, it's not essential to stress too much about the exact time. If hCG levels are high enough, pregnancy tests can still detect them later in the day. In some cases, using less concentrated urine may delay a positive result by 12 to 24 hours. So, if your test is negative but you still suspect pregnancy, try again the next morning for more accurate results.

What are Some Early Signs of Pregnancy?

In addition to a missed period, several early signs may indicate pregnancy. These symptoms can vary from person to person, but some of the most common include:

• Increased urination: 

During pregnancy, your body produces more blood, causing your kidneys to work harder and filter more waste. This leads to more frequent trips to the bathroom.

• Fatigue: 

Feeling unusually tired is one of the earliest signs of pregnancy. This is primarily due to rising levels of the hormone progesterone, which can cause drowsiness and fatigue.

• Nausea:

Often referred to as morning sickness, nausea can begin as early as two weeks into pregnancy. Some people may feel queasy without vomiting, while others might experience more intense symptoms that include vomiting.

• Tender and swollen breasts: 

Your breasts may feel sore, sensitive, or fuller, similar to how they might feel before your period. You may also notice an increase in size or visible veins.

These symptoms can occur as early as 1 week before a missed period, so keep an eye on any changes in your body.

Conclusion

Always remember that no birth control method is 100% foolproof. Even with consistent and correct use, there is still a small chance of becoming pregnant. That’s why it’s important to take a pregnancy test if you miss a period or notice early symptoms such as cramping or breast tenderness.

Taking a pregnancy test helps determine whether you're pregnant and gives you a clear understanding of your situation, allowing you to take appropriate next steps, whatever the result may be.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)