Think you might be pregnant? Taking a pregnancy test is the first step toward finding out.
Knowing when to take a test and what to do next if you receive a positive result can help you navigate this significant time with clarity. (Looking for a safe space to talk? We’re here.)
How Do Pregnancy Tests Work?
Pregnancy tests detect the presence of human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG), a hormone your body produces after a fertilized egg implants in the uterus.
Home pregnancy tests measure hCG in urine and are designed to be easy to use. Blood tests, available through healthcare providers, offer even greater sensitivity and can detect hCG earlier than urine tests (but they are also more expensive).
When Should You Take a Pregnancy Test?
The best time to take a pregnancy test is after you’ve missed your period. By this point, hCG levels are usually high enough to be detected by most home pregnancy tests. If your cycle is irregular or you’re unsure when your period is due, wait at least 21 days after having unprotected sex before testing.
Testing first thing in the morning is also ideal because your urine is most concentrated at that time, which increases the likelihood of an accurate result. Follow the test instructions carefully to avoid errors, and if the result is unclear, wait a few days and test again.
Why You Should Get an Ultrasound After a Positive Test
If your pregnancy test is positive, scheduling an ultrasound is an essential next step.
While a positive test indicates a pregnancy, an ultrasound confirms it. It provides critical information—like your pregnancy’s gestational age, location (to rule out ectopic pregnancy), and viability (which means the pregnancy has signs of life, like a heartbeat).
We provide limited ultrasounds to help you get the answers you need.
Get Clarity Today
Wondering if you’re pregnant can feel overwhelming, but you’re not in this alone. At Stillwater Life Services, we’re here for you.
Contact us today to schedule your free pregnancy testing appointment.