How Soon After Sex Can I Take a Pregnancy Test?

If you’ve recently had unprotected sex or experienced contraception failure, you probably want to know as soon as possible. Waiting to take a pregnancy test when you think you may be pregnant can be excruciating. 

Before you begin to worry or make any plans, taking a home pregnancy test is an excellent first step. Of course, if you want to skip the home test, make an appointment today. We can provide lab-grade pregnancy testing for you – free of charge. 

APPOINTMENT 

When Should You Take a Pregnancy Test (for best results)? 

Option 1: Before You Miss Your Period 

The earlier you take a test in the first trimester, the less accurate it will be. Taking a test before you miss your period or less than two weeks after sex can cause a false negative. Some women take a test too early and assume they are not pregnant. This can be especially confusing if a woman spots or bleeds during her first trimester, making her believe she had her period. 

We see clients who are already entering their second trimester by the time they notice more obvious pregnancy symptoms and are shocked to find out they are pregnant. 

Option 2: Two Weeks Later 

Many women test according to the “two weeks” rule. Applying this rule can provide accurate results for women with a predictable 28-day cycle and who ovulate once at a regular interval.

However, some women’s cycles are not as predictable, or some medications such as birth control and antibiotics can change their cycle and ovulation date. Stress can also cause interruptions in a regular or typically predictable cycle. 

Option 3: After You Miss Your Period 

The best time to take a pregnancy test is when your period is supposed to start or after you realize your period is late. Many health professionals recommend waiting seven days after your period is supposed to start for best results. If your results are still unreadable or inconclusive, retake another pregnancy test the next day. For more accurate results, take the test when you first wake up. The hCG hormone is higher and more concentrated in the morning. 

If the test is negative, but you still think you may be pregnant, wait a few more days and test again. HCG nearly doubles about every two days in early pregnancy. If the results are inconclusive (or the results are positive, but you’re still unsure), make an appointment with us and know for sure. 

Next Step: Confirm Your Pregnancy 

Taking a home pregnancy test is often the first step. We’re your second. At your pregnancy confirmation appointment and options consultation, you can determine if the pregnancy is viable and how far along you are. We will also share medical information on all your pregnancy options, including abortion, adoption, and parenting. 

A home pregnancy test is an indicator of pregnancy, not a confirmation. That’s why you need an ultrasound to verify an intrauterine pregnancy. 

Whether you are considering an abortion or are looking for pregnancy services, we’re your go-to resource for options, answers, and support. 

>> MAKE AN APPOINTMENT 

All our services are free of charge, and we do not benefit from any decision you make.

References

Stuart, A. (2010, February 18). Pregnancy tests. WebMD. https://www.webmd.com/baby/pregnancy-tests

Galan, N., RN. (2022, March 31). Should you take a pregnancy test? 11 signs. https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/323135