How Soon Can You Take a Pregnancy Test?

If you think you might be pregnant, it’s completely normal to feel eager about confirming it. But how soon can you take a pregnancy test and trust the results?

At BASS Medical Group, we help patients across Northern California understand pregnancy testing, track their menstrual cycles, and get personalized care when they need it most. Here's what you should know before testing.

When Should You Take a Pregnancy Test?

Most at-home pregnancy tests can detect pregnancy around the first day of a missed period—typically 8 to 15 days after ovulation or conception. This timing allows your body to produce enough of the hormone hCG (human chorionic gonadotropin) for a reliable result.

For Best Accuracy:

• Test on the day your period is due or later
• Use first-morning urine, which has the highest concentration of hCG
• Avoid drinking too much water beforehand, which may dilute your urine

Understanding Menstrual Cycles: Regular vs. Irregular

If you have a regular cycle, it’s easier to detect a missed period and determine when to test. But if your cycle is irregular, pinpointing ovulation or missed periods can be trickier.

In these cases:

• Wait a few extra days after your expected period date
• If you receive a negative result, retest in 2–3 days
• Consider seeing your OB-GYN or PCP for a blood test or cycle evaluation

Types of Pregnancy Tests

1. At-Home Urine Tests

• Available at most drugstores
• Detect hCG in your urine
• Show results in minutes
• Most accurate after a missed period

2. Blood Tests (via your provider)

• Conducted by a healthcare provider
• Detect lower levels of hCG earlier (as soon as 6–8 days after ovulation)
• Can confirm pregnancy health and track hCG levels
• May be recommended for those with irregular cycles or fertility concerns

If you suspect pregnancy but keep receiving unclear test results, talk to a Primary Care Provider or OB-GYN at BASS Medical Group.

Can You Get a Pregnancy Test at BASS Medical Group?

While BASS Medical Group does not offer walk-in lab testing, our OB-GYNs and PCPs can:

• Discuss your pregnancy symptoms
• Order reliable blood testing through a referred lab
• Guide you on when and how to test
• Support early pregnancy and fertility planning

When to See a Doctor

Even if an at-home test is positive, you should schedule a visit to confirm your pregnancy and plan next steps. You should also see a doctor if:

• You have irregular cycles or symptoms of pregnancy but negative tests
• You experience unusual bleeding or cramping
• You’ve had trouble conceiving or have fertility concerns

Get Trusted Care at BASS Medical Group

Whether you’re trying to conceive, confirming a pregnancy, or simply want reproductive health guidance, BASS Medical Group is here for you. Our compassionate team of Primary Care Providers and OB-GYNs serves Walnut Creek, Oakland, San Francisco, and the greater Bay Area.

Schedule an appointment today with a provider near you.