Many women feel anxious or curious when they experience early signs of pregnancy, such as a missed period, nausea, or changes in their body. To confirm whether they are pregnant, a pregnancy test is the first step.
However, test results will be more accurate if taken at the right time. Knowing when to take a pregnancy test will help you get confirmation earlier and reduce the confusion caused by inaccurate results.
When is the Right Time for a Pregnancy Test?
To ensure accurate test results, there are several recommended times to take a pregnancy test, so you can be more certain and have more peace of mind.
1. Wait One Week After a Missed Period
The safest and most accurate time to take a pregnancy test is about one week after your expected period. During this time, levels of the hormone hCG (human chorionic gonadotropin) in your body are usually high enough to be easily detected by a pregnancy test.
That is why test results tend to be more certain than if they were done too early.
2. When the Body Shows Early Symptoms of Pregnancy
Every woman can experience pregnancy symptoms differently. Some women experience early symptoms even before their period is late.
If you start to experience signs of pregnancy, it's a good idea to try a pregnancy test. Some common signs include:
- Breasts feel swollen and more sensitive
- The area around the nipple (areola) looks darker
- Light blood spots appear from the vagina
- Nausea and vomiting, especially in the morning
- Cramps or discomfort in the stomach
- Stomach feels bloated
- The body gets tired or weak easily
- Urinating more often than usual
- Mood swings.
3. Two Weeks After Unprotected Sexual Intercourse
For those who want a quicker test, a pregnancy test can also be taken two weeks after unprotected sex. This is because the body needs time to produce the hCG hormone from conception until it can be detected by the test.
4. Use the First Urine in the Morning
The timing of the test also affects the accuracy of the results. It's recommended to test with your first urine sample upon waking in the morning, as the concentration of hCG in the urine is still high. This increases the chance of a more accurate result.
Tips for Getting More Accurate Pregnancy Test Results
Sometimes, pregnancy test results can be inaccurate due to minor errors in using the test kit. To prevent this from happening, consider the following:
- Check the test kit's expiration date. Ensure the test kit you're using hasn't passed its expiration date. Older or expired kits are typically less sensitive, risking inaccurate results.
- Follow the instructions carefully. Each brand of test kit has different usage instructions. Read the instructions on the packaging carefully and follow the steps to ensure more accurate test results.
- Repeat the test if necessary. If your first result is negative but your period hasn't arrived, try again in a week. In some women, hCG levels take longer to rise to detectable levels.
- Consult a medical professional. If you've tried repeated tests and still have doubtful results, you should see a doctor immediately for confirmation.
Factors Affecting Test Pack Results
While convenient, test packs don't always provide accurate results if used without considering several important factors. Test accuracy can be affected by how you use it and your body's condition. Here are some factors you should be aware of.
- Test Implementation Time
Testing too early, for example a few days after intercourse, usually won't be able to detect the hCG hormone effectively. The ideal time is about one week after a missed period. - Test Pack Types and Sensitivity
Each brand of pregnancy test has a different level of sensitivity to the hCG hormone. Highly sensitive tests can detect pregnancy earlier, while less sensitive ones take longer. - Certain Health Conditions
Some medical conditions, such as hormonal disorders, use of certain medications (e.g., fertility drugs containing hCG), or problems with the reproductive system, can affect test results.
How to Use a Test Pack Based on Its Type
1. Strip Test Pack
This is the most common type and usually the most affordable.
- Collect urine in a clean container.
- Dip the strip into the urine up to the specified line (not too deep).
- Lift it after a few seconds, then place it on a flat surface.
- Wait for results to appear in 1–5 minutes according to package instructions.
2. Cassette Test Pack
It is shaped like a small cassette and usually uses a pipette.
- Drop a few drops of urine into the designated area (usually marked “S” or “sample”) using the provided pipette.
- Make sure the number of drops is according to the instructions (generally 2–3 drops).
- Place it on a flat surface, then wait for the results to appear in a few minutes.
4. Digital Test Pack
More modern, with a digital screen that displays the words “pregnant” or “not pregnant”.
- Can be used by collecting urine in a clean container such as a test strip pack.
- Follow the instructions according to the brand as each product may vary.
- Wait a few minutes for the results to appear on the digital screen.
When Should You Consult a Doctor?
If you've taken multiple pregnancy tests but the results are still unclear or conflicting, don't hesitate to see a doctor. A medical examination can provide more accurate results through blood tests or ultrasounds. In addition to confirming your pregnancy, your doctor can also help detect other health issues that might affect your menstrual cycle or test results. This way, you can get confirmation and receive appropriate treatment early.
This article was reviewed by Dr. Andika Sauw, Sp.OG F.MAS (Obstetrics and Gynecology Specialist, EMC Hospital, Tangerang).