When to take a pregnancy test

Learn more about timing your tests and find out the average day for the first positive and first negative pregnancy tests.

First pregnancy test

9.8 DPO

The average day past ovulation that women take their first pregnancy test.

First negative

9.1 DPO

The average day past ovulation for the first negative result. (false negative or not).

First positive

12 DPO

The average day past ovulation that women get their first positive pregnancy test.

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Implantation and hCG

Every woman is different and the amount of time it takes for the fertilized egg to implant in the uterus wall varies widely. Implantation will usually occur somewhere between 6 and 12 days past ovulation. Once the fertilized egg implants, the developing placenta begins releasing hCG (human chorionic gonadotropin) into the blood. Some hCG also gets passed into the urine. hCG levels usually double every 2-3 days in early pregnancy. Once the levels are high enough they can then be picked up by a home pregnancy test. Depending on the pregnancy test brand and when implantation occurs for you this will range from 10-16 days after conception has occurred.

Implantation calculator

Use this calculator to find the most likely date range for implantation based on your cycle.

Test sensitivity

Pregnancy test sensitivity will be your next consideration. The sensitivity of home pregnancy tests vary quite widely from brand to brand - anywhere from 10 mIU to 250 mIU. The lower the level of hCG picked up by the test, the earlier you will see a positive result. Make sure to read the box/instructions of the pregnancy test you choose to use - they will usually specify when it is best to use the test. Some brands publish the sensitivity on the box, others don't.

Remember...

Many women get a negative test result before they get a positive, this is usually due to testing too early. To avoid unnecessary disappointment you should try and wait as long as possible before testing.

Pregnancy test calculator

Use this calculator to help you decide when to take your first home pregnancy test.

 

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