When to take pregnancy test?

Home pregnancy tests can detect pregnancy by measuring levels of human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) in urine. The placenta produces HCG after a fertilized egg implants in the uterus. These tests become increasingly accurate as HCG levels rise, which typically happens after a missed menstrual period. While some tests claim to be able to detect pregnancy even before a missed period, these may produce a false-negative result. It is generally recommended to wait until at least one week after a missed period to take a home pregnancy test for more reliable results. A negative result on a home pregnancy test does not rule out pregnancy, and a positive result necessitates confirmation by a healthcare provider. It is always essential to consult a doctor for confirmation and subsequent prenatal care.