how long after a missed period should i take a pregnancy test

4 hours ago 4
Nature

You can take a pregnancy test as early as the first day of a missed period

. If you don't know when your next period is due, do the test at least 21 days after you last had unprotected sex

. Some very sensitive pregnancy tests can be used even before you miss a period

. For the most accurate results, test one to two weeks after your missed period

. Testing too early can increase the risk of a false negative result

. If you have irregular cycles, test 14 days after intercourse

. Home pregnancy tests detect the hormone human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG), which is produced in early pregnancy

. If you test after you've missed your period, you can test any time of the day

. If you test before your period, test first thing in the morning for the most accurate result