If you have recently had sexual intercourse and feel “off” in any way, such as extreme fatigue or nausea, or your period is late, it is wise to take a pregnancy test as a precaution.
It is possible to take a pregnancy test too early because there may not be detectable levels of hCG if you don’t wait long enough. You should wait at least a few days after your first missed period. If your period is irregular or you don’t track it, wait at least three weeks after you’ve had sex.
If you receive a negative result on a pregnancy test but your period still hasn’t started, you should wait another week before testing again. Waiting allows more time to pass and increases the accuracy of the results.
What Will I Feel Like If I’m Pregnant?
Pregnancy symptoms can vary, and some women may not experience any. Early pregnancy symptoms, like bloating, moodiness, fatigue, and breast tenderness, can resemble premenstrual symptoms.
Hormonal changes cause these symptoms, which include frequent urination, food aversions, and heightened sensitivity to smells.
How Do Pregnancy Tests Work?
After about six to twelve days following conception, the fertilized egg attaches to the uterine wall, marking the beginning of placental development. During this process, the cells in the placenta start producing a hormone called human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG).
This hormone triggers the production of other pregnancy-supporting hormones and exists in blood and urine. The levels of hCG typically double every 2-3 days.
Pregnancy tests are designed with a reactive strip that detects the presence of hCG in the body and determines whether a woman is pregnant.
Confirming Your Pregnancy
We know waiting for the right time to take a pregnancy test can be overwhelming, but we’re here to help you take the next step.
At Life Choices Medical Clinic, we provide no-charge, lab-quality pregnancy tests and can assist you in determining the optimal timing based on your last menstrual period.
Schedule an appointment with us today, and our dedicated team will offer support and help you explore all your options throughout this journey.