Most people can test for pregnancy on the first day after a missed period, but results are more reliable if you wait about a week after the missed period.
Best time to test
- Standard home urine pregnancy tests are designed to be used from the first day your period is late, and many will already be accurate at that point.
- Waiting 1–2 weeks after a missed period reduces the chance of a false negative because the pregnancy hormone hCG has more time to build up.
If your cycle is irregular
- If you are not sure when your period is due or your cycles are irregular, many clinicians suggest testing at least 21 days (3 weeks) after unprotected sex.
- If a test is negative but your period still does not come, repeat the test after a few days to a week or see a healthcare professional for a blood test and evaluation.
Tips for more accurate results
- Use the first urine of the morning when hCG is most concentrated, especially if you are testing soon after a missed period.
- Follow the instructions on the test carefully, and if you get mixed or unclear results, contact a healthcare provider or clinic for guidance and possibly a blood test, which can detect pregnancy earlier and more precisely.