Question 1

When should I take a pregnancy test?

Accepted Answer

You should take a pregnancy test on or after the first day of your missed period. For the most accurate result, wait at least one week after a missed period. Testing too early can produce a false negative because hCG (the pregnancy hormone) may not yet be at detectable levels. If your cycles are irregular, count at least 21 days after your last unprotected intercourse before testing.

Question 2

When can I take a pregnancy test?

Accepted Answer

Most home pregnancy tests can detect hCG as early as 10 days after conception, which is typically about 4 days before your expected period. However, the accuracy improves significantly if you wait until the first day of your missed period or later. For the earliest possible detection, use a first-morning urine sample, which contains the highest concentration of hCG.

Question 3

How many weeks pregnant am I?

Accepted Answer

To calculate how many weeks pregnant you are, count the number of full weeks since the first day of your last menstrual period (LMP). This is how obstetricians determine gestational age. For example, if your LMP was 6 weeks ago, you are 6 weeks pregnant. Our pregnancy calculator can determine your exact gestational age in weeks and days based on your LMP, conception date, or ultrasound date.

Question 4

How far along is my pregnancy?

Accepted Answer

How far along you are is determined by your gestational age, measured in weeks from the first day of your last menstrual period (LMP). A full-term pregnancy is approximately 40 weeks, divided into three trimesters: first trimester (weeks 1–12), second trimester (weeks 13–26), and third trimester (weeks 27–40). Use our calculator to enter your LMP or due date to find out exactly how far along you are and which trimester you are currently in.

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