Waiting to find out whether you are pregnant can feel like the longest part of trying to conceive. Testing too early, however, can leave you with an uncertain answer.

When should you test?
Most home pregnancy tests are most reliable from the first day of a missed period—often around two weeks after ovulation. If you do not know when your period is due, test at least 21 days after your last unprotected sex.

Why can an early test be negative?
Pregnancy tests detect human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG). If you test too soon, the level may be too low to detect, even if you are pregnant.

What if the result is negative?
Wait a few days and test again if your period has not arrived. Follow the kit’s instructions carefully. If a second test is negative and your period is still absent, contact your healthcare provider.

After IUI or IVF
Follow your fertility clinic’s assigned testing date. An hCG trigger injection can cause a false-positive result if you test too early. Do not stop prescribed medication based on an early home test without your clinic’s advice.

The wait can be difficult. Testing at the right time can help you get a clearer answer.

Longevity Fertility Centre | Calgary & Edmonton