New parents must have patience. So when is the best time for a pregnancy test to be taken? It can be tempting to rush to get a pregnancy test if you have been trying for a while. This could lead to disappointment and could be costly.
It’s better to learn how a pregnancy test works, before you start spending thousands of dollars peeing on sticks. Even better, you don’t have to spend time at the doctor.
This article:
- When will a pregnancy test be positive?
- Should I take a pregnancy test at night or in the morning?
- What do I do if my test comes back negative?
- This section will guide you through each stage of pregnancy.
When will a pregnancy test be positive?
Women trying to conceive often ask this question: “When should you take a pregnancy test?” For maximum effectiveness, it is important to understand the human body, specifically your hormones.
Pregnancy tests detect a hormone called human-chorionic gonadotropin. You can either urinate on the test kits or put the urine in a clean container. When this hormone is most likely to be in your body, is the best time to test for pregnancy.
When can a pregnancy test be done?
Some pregnancy testing kits brands claim to have ‘early detection rates’. This is a great idea in theory but science has no reason to doubt. Your menstrual cycle is the best time to test for pregnancy.
Let’s assume you have a 28-day period. If your partner successfully fertilizes the egg, conception usually occurs around 10-14 days after ovulation. If you have not had sex in the past, expect your uterine wall, which is normally normal, to fall down and lead to a normal monthly period around two weeks.
You may experience some symptoms after the egg is successfully implanted. Do not rush to get the pregnancy test. Wait until your next period. The test will generally be more accurate the closer you get to your next period.
- 25 % of the tests are accurate six-days before your next period
- 33% of tests are valid five days before your next period
- 42% Of tests are accurate four day before your next period
- 68% tests are valid three days before your next period
- 81% tests are valid two days before your next period
- 93% accuracy of tests one day prior to the date of your next period
- 96% accuracy of the tests on the day you expect to have your next period
- Tests that are up to 100% accurate within the day following your next period
It’s easier to get false positives than false negatives. It is unlikely that the pregnancy test will detect a hormone absent. If you aren’t sure, it is best to consult your doctor.
Should I take a pregnancy test at night or in the morning?
We know when to test during our menstrual cycles. What time is best to test for pregnancy? Morning or night? It might seem like it makes any difference. You might be able to save money by avoiding all the sticks.
When is the best time to have a pregnancy test?
It is best to test your pregnancy first thing in the AM, before you get up. Why? This is because hormones are at their most concentrated. If you aren’t a frequent nighttime toilet visitor, this could be a sign that you might be pregnant. Your body can accumulate urine.
Your urine will contain the highest amount of human chorionic Gonadotropin. If you don’t have any urine, you should make sure that you have a pregnancy testing kit ready for when you get up.
Is it possible to take a pregnancy test in the middle of the day?
This isn’t the only time you could take a pregnancy test. You should be aware that excessive water intake could cause the test to become diluted. You can also take the test during the night if you’re a frequent bathroom user. To ensure that the hormone reaches its maximum concentration, it is best to wait at least four hours before you go to the bathroom.
What do I do if my test comes back negative?
If the test results are negative, don’t panic. Even the youngest couples can conceive in 12 months. You could even be pregnant and the test could prove false negative, especially if you haven’t had a period.
You can wait a few days before you take another test. It may be worth making an appointment to have a blood test done if your period has not arrived. This test is similar to a urine test and can also measure human chorionic Gonadotropin. If you have ever had an ectopic pregnancy, some healthcare professionals recommend this test.
It is important not to lose heart. Conception can be a complicated process. Many factors, including age, lifestyle, and understanding of your menstrual cycle, can impact it. This is not something you should do alone.
This section will guide you through each stage of pregnancy.
Peanut understands that conception can be one the most difficult and emotionally draining parts of pregnancy. We are here to help you every step of your journey.
