Pregnancy Test Timing: When to Take a Test for Accurate Results

Question
Hi, I had unprotected sex on 7/15/09, my menstrual cycle was on sometime the week of 6/22/09... My period is very irregular... Is it to early to tell if I'm pregnant or not?

Answer
Dear Gabby,

Although some tests claim accuracy on the first day of a missed period, I usually suggest that women wait until the week after a missed or spotty period before testing for pregnancy, which is usually about three weeks after a potential conception date. This tends to minimize the incidence of false negative results and also avoids wasting money on a test for a simple delay of a period by a few days. When/if you test make sure to use 1st morning urine to get a concentrated sample for the most accurate results.

I hope this has helped you and answered your question. I wish you well.

Brenda