Whether your period is late or you’re noticing potential pregnancy symptoms, it’s normal to want answers quickly. But timing your test correctly, which can mean waiting sometimes, can make a big difference in getting accurate results.

At Caring For Women Center, we’re here to walk you through the unknown, offering free and confidential pregnancy tests and caring support in a safe, confidential environment. Here’s what you should know about the best time to take a pregnancy test—and what to do next.

Understanding How Pregnancy Tests Work

Home pregnancy tests detect a hormone called hCG (human chorionic gonadotropin), which your body starts producing after a fertilized egg implants in the uterus. Testing too soon—before your body has produced enough hCG—can lead to a negative result, even if you are pregnant.

That’s why waiting until after a missed period is so important. For many women, testing one or two days after a missed period gives a more accurate result. If your cycle is irregular, you may want to wait a few extra days or reach out for help determining the best time to test.

When to Test for the Most Accurate Result

To increase the accuracy of your pregnancy test, keep the following in mind:

  • Wait until at least one day after your missed period
  • Take the test in the morning, when your urine is most concentrated
  • Follow the test instructions carefully
  • Avoid drinking large amounts of fluids before testing

Even with careful timing, it’s possible to receive unclear or false results. If that happens, we offer a confidential, caring place to process your results and next steps.

More Than Just a Missed Period

A missed period isn’t the only sign of pregnancy. You might also notice fatigue, nausea, tender breasts, or mood changes. These symptoms don’t confirm pregnancy on their own, but if you’re experiencing them—especially along with a late period—it may be time to take a test.

We’re Here to Help You Take the Next Step

If you’re unsure when to test or find out you’re facing an unplanned pregnancy, you don’t have to figure it out alone. At Caring For Women Center, we offer free, pregnancy tests to help you move forward confidently.

You deserve to be informed and supported. Reach out to schedule your free and confidential appointment today. We’re here to listen, answer your questions, and help you find a way forward.

This blog is for informational purposes only. This facility is not a licensed medical facility. We do not offer, recommend, or refer for abortions or abortifacients; therefore, we receive no financial gain from your decision. We are committed to providing accurate information about pregnancy options, abortion procedure risks and alternatives, and after-abortion care.