How Long Do Pregnancy Tests Take to Show Results? | Women’s Resource Center of Hancock County

April 18, 2024

You think you might be pregnant. Either you are experiencing symptoms or you missed your period and you want to be certain.

Most home pregnancy tests take about three minutes to get results. However, it is essential to follow the directions on each test because they are all different.

Here are some other facts to keep in mind.

How Does a Pregnancy Test Work?

When a fertilized egg implants itself in the uterine wall, the body begins to produce a hormone called human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG). Pregnancy tests are designed to detect its presence.

Even though some tests can show positive results as early as days after conception, it is best to wait until after you have missed your period. Otherwise, you risk having a false negative.

When used correctly, many urine pregnancy tests claim to be 99% accurate. False negatives occur due to taking the test too early, checking the test result too early, or taking the test later in the day.

What Are Some Important Things to Know Before Taking a Pregnancy Test?

It helps to test your urine first thing in the morning. This time of day is when it is in its most concentrated form.
Don’t drink excessive water before taking the test. This can water down the concentration of hCG.
Follow the directions on the test exactly. Check the test at the time stated—not before or much later.
If a test is allowed to sit too long, it can develop an evaporation line which will make the test appear positive. To avoid this, throw the test away when the designated time has been reached.
If using an early pregnancy test, read the accuracy percentages. For instance, the Clearblue Digital Test is only 78% accurate six days before a missed period.
If you receive an early negative test result and feel you might be pregnant, wait until after your missed period to test again.

Receive a Free Pregnancy Test

Our experienced medical team can provide you with a free medical-grade pregnancy test to ensure your results are correct. If the test is positive and you qualify, we can confirm your pregnancy with a free ultrasound.

Our team will provide you with information on all your options. We are here to provide help for today and hope for tomorrow.

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