When can you test to see if you are pregnant?

The moment you want to know if you are pregnant is often an exciting and anxious one. But when is the right time to take a pregnancy test for a reliable result? In this article, we discuss how pregnancy tests work, when is the best time to test and which factors influence the reliability of the test.

How does a pregnancy test work?

A pregnancy test detects the hormone hCG (human chorionic gonadotropin) in your urine. This hormone is produced as soon as a fertilised egg implants itself in the uterine wall. The amount of hCG in your body increases rapidly in the first weeks of pregnancy, which is the basis for how the test works.

When can you take a pregnancy test?

The most reliable time to take a pregnancy test is from the day your period is due to start. On this day, the amount of hCG in your urine is usually high enough to be detected by the test.

Some sensitive pregnancy tests claim that you can test as early as four to six days before your expected period. However, testing before your expected period may yield less reliable results because the hCG level may not yet be high enough to be detected.

How reliable is a pregnancy test?

Home pregnancy tests are generally more than 99% reliable if you use them from the day your period is due to start. However, the reliability may decrease if you test too early or if you do not perform the test correctly.

Factors affecting reliability

Various factors can influence the reliability of a pregnancy test:

Testing too early: The hCG level may not yet be high enough to be detected, which can lead to a false-negative result.

Diluted urine: It is advisable to perform the test in the morning with your first urine sample, as this is the most concentrated.

Incorrect execution: Always follow the instructions on the package insert carefully to avoid mistakes.

What to do if the test is negative but menstruation does not occur?

If you have a negative test but your period does not come, there are a few steps you can take:

Repeat the test after a few days: The hCG level may rise to a detectable level in the meantime.

Consult your doctor: If your period is long overdue and you keep getting negative test results, it is wise to seek medical advice.

Conclusion

For the most reliable result, it is advisable to take a pregnancy test from the day your period is due to start. Testing before this day can yield less reliable results. Always follow the test instructions carefully and preferably use your first morning urine for the test.