Pregnancy Tests

At-home pregnancy tests are the most common way to confirm pregnancy.

Use after a missed period and test the first pee of the day for the most accurate result.

These tests work by detecting the hormone hCG (human chorionic gonadotropin) in urine, which is produced after a fertilized egg implants in the uterus.

hCG levels are more concentrated in your first morning urine, so testing with the first pee of the day can increase accuracy, especially in early pregnancy when hCG levels are still low.

Some sensitive tests claim to detect pregnancy as early as 6-8 days after ovulation, but for the most reliable result, it's best to wait until after your missed period (about 14 days after ovulation).

It is best to wait until after a missed period to take a pregnancy test for the most accurate result, as hCG levels may not be high enough to detect before then. If you take a test too early, you may get a false negative.

What to Do After a Positive Test

False positives are rare. If you get a positive result, it's very likely that you are pregnant.

Once you get a positive result, call your OBGYN to schedule your first prenatal appointment. They will usually schedule you for around 8-10 weeks after your last menstrual period, which is when they can confirm the pregnancy with an ultrasound and establish care.

If you want to bring someone for support, you can ask your provider about their policy. Some providers prefer to see you alone for the first visit to discuss sensitive topics and get a full medical history.