You can reliably test for pregnancy starting from the first day of your missed period. Some pregnancy tests are sensitive enough to detect pregnancy as early as about 9 to 10 days after intercourse or 6 days before your missed period, but testing too early may yield false negatives because hCG levels may not yet be high enough to detect. For the most accurate results, it is generally recommended to wait at least one week after your missed period before testing. Blood tests can detect pregnancy even earlier, around 6 days after implantation, but home urine tests are common first steps. If you are unsure of your cycle or when to test, waiting at least 21 days after unprotected sex is advisable for reliable results. In summary:
- Earliest detection: ~9-10 days after intercourse or ~6 days before missed period with sensitive tests.
- Reliable testing: from first day of missed period.
- Best accuracy: 1-2 weeks after missed period.
- If uncertain, test at least 21 days after unprotected sex.
- Blood tests can detect pregnancy about 6 days after implantation.
This guidance helps minimize false negatives and improves the reliability of early pregnancy detection.
