How Soon After Sex Can I Take a Pregnancy Test?

If you recently had unprotected sex, you might be wondering if you're pregnant. Hopefully this article will provide some answers to the questions buzzing through your mind!

How soon after sex can I take a pregnancy test?

You should wait a minimum of two weeks before taking an at-home pregnancy test. You've probably heard someone mention hGH levels and pregnancy... hGH is a pregnancy hormone, and it needs at least two weeks to build before it is picked up on a pregnancy test. If you test too early, it could result in a false negative.

What about a blood test?

Pros: A blood test can actually recognize lower levels of the hCH hormone, meaning you can detect a pregnancy as soon as 7-10 days after sex.

Cons: A blood test cannot be done at home like a urine test. You would have to see a doctor, and lab results could take a while to come back...

What do I do after I get a positive home test?

Take a deep breath.

Maybe this pregnancy wasn't planned. Maybe you're wondering what your options are, if the baby is growing in the right place, or what your next steps should be.

That's why we're here. To help women navigate their pregnancy. Want to know your options? Do you need an ultrasound to confirm viability? Having trouble finding the right OB/GYN? Wondering what your date of conception is? We can help you answer these questions. 

Give us a call to set up an appointment: 304-344-4511

What about false positives?

While at-home urine tests are correct nearly 99% of the time, it is possible to have a false positive. Here are some of the reasons why your test might be wrong:

1. You test too early (instead of waiting 2 weeks after sex)

2. You don't closely follow the instructions on the package.

3. Your urine is diluted. (Try testing in the morning before ingesting any liquids, when your pee is more concentrated.)

If you think you might have had a false positive test, we'd be happy to give you a medical-grade pregnancy test at our center, FREE of charge! 

Other helpful articles:

https://crossroadspcc.com/blog/what-are-at-home-abortions-are-they-safe

https://crossroadspcc.com/blog/should-i-take-the-abortion-pill

https://crossroadspcc.com/blog/why-ultrasounds-are-so-important