How Soon Can You Take a Pregnancy Test? Timing Explained
Learn when to take a pregnancy test for accurate results. Find out the longest wait time for the best outcome.
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The longest time before a positive pregnancy test can vary, but generally, over-the-counter tests can detect hCG levels as early as 10-14 days after conception. For more accurate results, it's recommended to wait until after your missed period, typically around 21 days post-conception.
FAQs & Answers
- What is the best time to take a pregnancy test? The best time to take a pregnancy test is after your missed period, typically around 21 days post-conception for more accurate results.
- Can pregnancy tests be wrong if taken too early? Yes, taking a pregnancy test too early can lead to false negatives due to insufficient hCG levels, which may not yet be detectable.
- What does hCG stand for? hCG stands for human chorionic gonadotropin, a hormone produced during pregnancy that tests detect.
- How reliable are over-the-counter pregnancy tests? Over-the-counter pregnancy tests are generally reliable if used correctly, especially after the missed period.