The best time to take a pregnancy test is on the first day of a missed period or later. This timing allows your body to have produced enough of the pregnancy hormone hCG to be detected by the test. Some highly sensitive tests can detect pregnancy a few days before your missed period, but testing too early increases the chance of a false negative. For the most accurate result, waiting about a week after your missed period is recommended. If your cycle is irregular or you don't know when your period is due, taking the test at least 21 days after unprotected sex is advised to ensure accuracy. Additionally, taking the test first thing in the morning can provide a more concentrated urine sample, improving test sensitivity.
