How long should you take a pregnancy test after intercourse

If you’ve had unprotected sex recently, then you’re probably thinking about taking a pregnancy test. And you’ve probably got a few questions about them. Like ‘How long do I need to wait before taking one?’ and ‘How do I make sure I’m getting the most accurate results possible?’ To answer those questions (and more), we spoke to Dr. Anna Whelan, an OB-GYN and maternal-fetal medicine fellow at the Women and Infants Hospital of Rhode Island. 

Rule of thumb: For the most accurate results, wait a minimum of two weeks after having unprotected sex to take a pregnancy test, said Dr. Whelan. That’s true for both at-home and blood tests. That’s because your body needs time to build up hCG, the hormone that’s produced during pregnancy. And the one that’s analyzed in pregnancy tests. If you take a pregnancy test too early, there’s a chance you could get a false negative. 

How accurate are pregnancy tests?

To test for pregnancy, you have two options. And they’re both precise. 

An at-home test is 97% to 99% accurate when used correctly (more on that below). A blood test, performed at a doctor’s office or lab, is around 99% accurate.

If you get a positive result at home, call your doctor. Your provider can help you confirm the pregnancy. But it’s rare to get a false positive result. So even if the lines on the test are faint, it still means you’re pregnant.  

A blood test, ordered by a doctor, is your other option. Note: A blood test can detect lower levels of hCG than an at-home test can, but it can take longer to get results due to lab processing, said Dr. Whelan. After getting a positive result at home, it’s common for a doctor, at your first appointment, to order a blood test to confirm the results. Your doctor might also order a blood test if you’re experiencing bleeding or abdominal pain, which can be symptoms of a potential miscarriage. 

How can I make sure the pregnancy test results are as accurate as possible? 

Experts recommend you:

• Take the test in the morning: That’s when hCG is most concentrated in your urine,  said Dr. Whelan. 

• Read your results ASAP: Follow the instructions on the package closely. Waiting to check the results after the recommended amount of time can lead to a false positive.  (For example, a First Response Early Result Pregnancy Test will show results in three minutes). 

• Avoid drinking too much water or other liquids beforehand: Because diluting your urine could interfere with the test’s ability to detect your hCG levels properly. 

• Store the test correctly: Store the test between 36 and 86 degrees Fahrenheit. That'll help slow down the expiration process. Speaking of which...

• Double check the expiration date: Because the antibody coating on a pregnancy test can begin to evaporate and lose its effectiveness over time. At-home tests typically last about one to three years after manufacturing. 

theSkimm 

Of course you’ll want to know as soon as you can if you’re pregnant. But to get the most accurate results, it’s best to wait at least two weeks after having unprotected sex before taking a pregnancy test. And if you’re confused or concerned about your test results, speak with your medical provider.

Waiting to take a pregnancy test when you think you may be pregnant can be excruciating. If you’ve recently had unprotected sex or experienced contraception failure, you probably want to know as soon as possible.

Before you begin to worry or make any plans, taking a home pregnancy test is a good first step. Of course, if you want to skip the home test, make an appointment

When Should You Take a Pregnancy Test (For Best Results)?

Option 1: Before You Miss Your Period

The earlier you take a test, the less accurate it will be. Taking a test before you miss your period or less than two weeks after sex can cause a false negative. Some women take a test too early and assume they are not pregnant. This can be especially confusing if a woman spots or bleeds during her first trimester, making her believe she had her period.

We see clients who are already entering their second trimester by the time they notice more obvious pregnancy symptoms and are shocked to find out they are pregnant.

Option 2: Two Weeks Later

Many women test according to the “two weeks” rule. This can provide accurate results for women with a predictable 28-day cycle and who ovulate once at a regular interval. However, some women’s cycles are not as predictable, or medications such as birth control and antibiotics can change their cycle and ovulation date. Stress can also cause interruptions in a regular or typically predictable cycle.

Option 3: After You Miss Your Period

The best time to take a pregnancy test is when your period is supposed to start or after you realize your period is late. If your results were still unreadable or inconclusive, retake another pregnancy test the next day. For more accurate results, take the test when you first wake up. The hCG hormone is higher and more concentrated in the morning. If the test is negative, but you still think you may be pregnant, wait a few more days and test again. HCG nearly doubles about every two days in early pregnancy. If the results are inconclusive (or the results are positive, but you’re still unsure), make an appointment with us and know for sure.

Pregnancy Confirmation

Taking a home pregnancy test is often the first step. We’re your second. At your pregnancy confirmation appointment and options consultation, you can determine if the pregnancy is viable and how far along you are. We will also share accurate medical information on all your pregnancy options, including abortion, adoption, and parenting. A home pregnancy test is an indicator of pregnancy, not a confirmation. That’s why you
need an ultrasound to verify an intrauterine pregnancy.

Whether you are considering an abortion or are looking for pregnancy resources, we are here with options, answers, and support.

All our services are free of charge and we do not benefit from any decision you make.

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