How long after conception should i test

The way the result is presented also varies according to the brand. They will all tell you the length of time you need to wait before reading the result. The usual and long-standing advice is to wait until the first day of your missed period to allow enough time for detectable levels of hCG to build up. Nowadays some tests are more sensitive than others and you may be able to take the test as early as 4 to 5 days before your period is due.

Check the instructions on the packet! This is because, although you can reckon roughly on ovulation taking place two weeks before the next period is due if your cycle is regular, an irregular cycle can mean that the exact date of ovulation is unpredictable. The advice of the NHS is that, if you are pregnant, you can assume that conception took place two weeks before your first missed period was due.

They also have a pregnancy due date calculator so you can work out when the baby is due. These can be taken 7 to 12 days after you conceive. However, unless you have a medical condition that makes an early pregnancy test essential, or you are engaged in a treatment with a fertility clinic, it is much more likely that a home kit is your most practical option. Accuracy is the whole point of the number of days you need to wait.

You should wait to take a pregnancy test until the week after your missed period for the most accurate result. If you are pregnant, your body needs time to develop detectable levels of HCG. This typically takes seven to 12 days after successful implantation of an egg.

Here are some signs that you should take a pregnancy test. Many women have a day menstrual cycle. Keep in mind that your period can sometimes be delayed or skipped due to stress , diet , exercise , or certain medical conditions. Also pay attention to your flow if you suspect pregnancy. Take note of any difference in the color, texture, or amount of blood.

Implantation can also produce a feeling similar to menstrual cramps. In early pregnancy, you may feel this discomfort and think your period is just around the corner, but then it never comes.

Your breasts may feel tender and appear bigger due to increased blood flow. Your nipples might hurt and the veins might look darker under the skin.

As the weeks go on, these symptoms may get stronger before your HCG levels even out late in the first trimester. You know yourself, so pay attention to your body. Any unusual physical symptoms could prompt you to take a pregnancy test.

Human error or defects can also result in unplanned pregnancy. Birth control pills can be difficult to remember to take each day. However, you can still take a pregnancy test at a different time of day. These tests assume a day luteal phase , which is the time between ovulation and when you get your period. The problem is that you may have a shorter or longer luteal phase. If your luteal phase is usually 12 days, four days before your missed period would be nine days after ovulation.

For you, taking the test four days before your missed period would be pointless. If you have a luteal phase of 15 days, four days before your missed period is 12 days after ovulation.

You still may not have enough hormones that early. However, you have a better chance than someone with a shorter luteal phase. An early test may detect the remains of fertility medication. Since the amount of hCG increases rapidly when you are pregnant, you may need to retest in a few days.

If you are tempted to take a test before your period is late, consider the pros and cons before you do. Although, in theory, you could start taking pregnancy tests 10 days after conception, taking the test early may give you a negative result, even if you are pregnant. As pregnancy hormones increase rapidly, the longer you wait, the more chance of an accurate result.

The best time to take a pregnancy test is the day after your expected period, in the morning hours, with your first urination of the day.

In the event of a positive result, contact your healthcare provider as soon as possible to discuss your options and potential next steps. Sign up for our Health Tip of the Day newsletter, and receive daily tips that will help you live your healthiest life. Pregnancy test timeline. Food and Drug Administration. Updated April 29, Cleveland Clinic. Pregnancy test information. Updated June 21, Department of Health and Human Services. If you're 13 or older, the staff won't tell your parents.

They'll encourage you to talk to your parents, but they won't force you. If you're under 25 and would prefer advice specifically for young people, the sexual health charity Brook provides a range of services for young people. The Brook website contains information on pregnancy choices. Take our survey. Page last reviewed: 1 October Next review due: 1 October Home Pregnancy Trying for a baby Back to Trying for a baby. Doing a pregnancy test. When you can do a pregnancy test You can carry out most pregnancy tests from the first day of a missed period.

Where you can get a pregnancy test You can also buy pregnancy testing kits from pharmacists and some supermarkets. The following places provide free pregnancy tests: community contraceptive clinics — find sexual health services near you sexual health clinics some young people's services — call the national sexual health helpline on for details Brook centres — for unders You may also be able to get a pregnancy test free of charge from your GP.