The hours and days between thinking you may be pregnant and being able to finally take a pregnancy test can be agonizing. While your mind fills with worry and fear, you’re likely staring at your calendar, wondering, “How long do I have to wait?!”
While the waiting is hard, it’s important to understand what you need to do to receive the most accurate pregnancy test results.
Life Choices Center is here to answer your questions!
How Long After Sex Until a Pregnancy Test is Accurate?
For at-home pregnancy tests, it’s recommended that you wait at least one week after your missed period for an accurate test result.
Pregnancy tests detect hCG, also called “the pregnancy hormone,” which doubles every 72 hours after conception. Because of this, most tests require at least one week for your body to develop a detectable amount of the hormone.
If you’re looking for quicker, more accurate results, head to your local pregnancy center for free lab-quality pregnancy testing. At Life Choices Center, our medical-grade pregnancy tests detect hCG within 7 days of conception or 21 to 24 days after the first day of your last period.
What are the Signs of Early Pregnancy?
As you wait to take a pregnancy test, be on the lookout for some of these common signs of early pregnancy:
- Missed period
- Breast tenderness and change
- Exhaustion
- Headaches
- Nausea and vomiting
- Unusual cravings
- Heightened Senses
- Mood swings
While all of the above can indicate pregnancy, they can also be related to other health conditions and hormonal changes. Because of that, it’s still essential to receive lab-quality pregnancy testing and an ultrasound referral to confirm your pregnancy.
What Should I Do After Receiving a Positive Pregnancy Test?
If you’ve received an unexpected positive pregnancy test, fear not! Life Choices Center is here to walk you through the next steps and guide you as you make a choice for your unplanned pregnancy.
While this time can feel scary and overwhelming, you’re not alone and there are resources available to you through our center and our supportive community.
From free ultrasound referrals and options consultations to physical resources, education, and more, Life Choices Center is here for you!
Schedule your free and confidential appointment today!