Title: How to Use a Home Pregnancy Test: 8 Steps (with Pictures)
Headings: How to Use a Home Pregnancy Test
How to Use a Home Pregnancy Test
Part 1
of 2:
Before Taking the Test
Part 2
of 2:
Taking the Test
Expert Q&A
Tips
Warnings
References
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2
Figure out when to take the test. Most experts advise that you should wait at least one day after your missed period before taking a home pregnancy test, though waiting a week is considered best. This can be tough when you are anxious to find out if you're pregnant, but waiting allows for a higher degree of accuracy when taking the test, as hCG levels rise rapidly in pregnant women. hCG develops in a woman's body only after a fertilized egg implants in her uterus. Implantation of the fertilized egg typically occurs on or around the 6th day after the sperm and egg have merged. This is why home pregnancy tests won't pick up on any hCG if you take the test too early, even if you are pregnant. [ 7]
X Trustworthy Source Mayo Clinic Educational website from one of the world's leading hospitals Go to source
It's best to do the home pregnancy test first thing in the morning, when your urine is most concentrated and hCG levels are highest. As a rule of thumb or if you have irregular periods, you should wait 3 weeks after sex to take a pregnancy test. However, if you are in a hurry, most tests will work after 2 weeks (approximately when your period is due).