That dreaded late period can trigger a flurry of emotions! Before you panic or celebrate, knowing when to test for pregnancy is key. Testing too early can lead to inaccurate results, causing unnecessary stress.
So, when *should* you test? The most reliable time is typically **one week after your missed period**. Pregnancy tests detect the hormone hCG (human chorionic gonadotropin), which your body starts producing after implantation. hCG levels rise rapidly in early pregnancy, but it takes time for them to reach a detectable level in urine.
Testing a week after gives your body ample time to produce enough hCG for an accurate result. While some highly sensitive tests claim accuracy sooner, waiting minimizes the risk of a false negative. For the most accurate results, use your first-morning urine, as hCG levels are usually most concentrated then. Good luck!
