Waiting to take a pregnancy test when you think you may be pregnant can be difficult. If you’ve recently had unprotected sex or experienced contraceptive failure, you probably want to know as soon as possible.
Before you begin to worry or make any plans, taking a home pregnancy test is a good first step. Of course, if you want to skip the home test, you can make an appointment with us today. We can provide lab-grade pregnancy testing for you - free of charge.
When Should You Take a Pregnancy Test?
Option 1: Before You Miss Your Period
The earlier you take a test, the less accurate it will be. Taking a test before you miss your period may result in a false negative result. Some women take a test too early and assume they are not pregnant. This can be especially confusing if a woman experiences vaginal bleeding or spotting during her first trimester of pregnancy, leading her to believe she had her period.
Option 2: After You Miss Your Period
The best time to take a pregnancy test is when your period is supposed to start or soon after you realize your period is late. If your results are inconclusive, retake another pregnancy test the next day. For more accurate results, take the test when you first wake up. The hCG hormone is higher and more concentrated in the morning.
If the test is negative, but you still think you may be pregnant, wait a few more days and test again. hCG nearly doubles approximately every 2 days in early pregnancy. If the results are inconclusive (or the results are positive but you’re still unsure), make an appointment with us and know for sure.
Option 3: After Unprotected Sex
If you are having unprotected sex, there is always a chance of getting pregnant. If you are having unprotected sex and have regular menstrual cycles, it is best to take a pregnancy test at the time of your missed period. But what if you don’t have regular menstrual cycles? If you have irregular menstrual cycles or if you are using a form of hormonal birth control, it may be harder to recognize if you are pregnant because it may be normal for you to not have a period each month. If you have had unprotected sex and have irregular periods or are using a form of hormonal birth control (because no form of birth control is 100% effective at preventing pregnancy), it is best to take a pregnancy test 2-3 weeks after unprotected sex to determine if you may be pregnant.
Next Step: Confirm Your Pregnancy
Taking a home pregnancy test is often the first step. We are your second. At your pregnancy confirmation appointment and options consultation, you can determine if the pregnancy is viable and how far along you are. We will also share accurate medical information on all of your pregnancy options including abortion, adoption, and parenting.
A positive home pregnancy test is an indicator of pregnancy, not a confirmation. That’s why you need an ultrasound to confirm an intrauterine pregnancy.
Whether you are considering an abortion or are looking for pregnancy services, we’re your go-to resource for options, answers, and support.
All our services are free of charge and we do not benefit from any decision you make.
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