Pregnancy can be detected as early as 6 to 8 days after ovulation using highly sensitive tests, but for the most accurate results it is recommended to wait until after a missed period, typically about 14 days after conception. Early detection tests can detect pregnancy hormone hCG in urine several days before the expected period, with accuracy increasing as time goes on.

How early pregnancy detection works

• Pregnancy tests detect human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG), a hormone produced shortly after the fertilized egg implants in the uterine lining.
• Implantation occurs about 6 to 12 days after ovulation, and trace levels of hCG can be detected from around 6 to 8 days post-ovulation.
• Most home pregnancy tests are over 99% accurate from the day of the expected period but some early tests can detect up to 6 days before the missed period.

Timing and accuracy of pregnancy tests

• Tests can give positive results as early as 6 days before the missed period (5 days before expected period) although accuracy is lower at this stage.
• The best time for testing is the first morning urine when hCG concentration is highest.
• Testing too early may result in a false negative because hCG levels may not be high enough yet.
• If the early test is negative but pregnancy is still suspected, retesting after the missed period is advised for more reliable results.

In summary, pregnancy detection is possible as early as about 6 to 8 days after ovulation with sensitive tests, but waiting until after a missed period improves accuracy significantly.