A pregnancy test can show a positive result as early as 6 to 8 days after ovulation, with highly sensitive tests detecting very low levels of the pregnancy hormone hCG. Most commonly, pregnancy tests become reliably positive around 10 to 14 days after conception, coinciding with the time a period is typically missed. For the most accurate results, it is generally recommended to wait until the first day of a missed period to take a test, as hCG levels will be higher and more easily detected by the test by then.

Early Detection Timing

• Some very sensitive pregnancy tests can detect hCG levels as low as 6.3 mIU/mL and can give positive results up to 6 days before the expected period (about 8 days post ovulation).

• Typical pregnancy hormone (hCG) production begins after implantation of the fertilized egg, which occurs 6 to 10 days post ovulation.

• Blood tests for pregnancy can detect hCG slightly earlier (7 to 10 days after conception) because they detect lower levels of hormone than urine tests.

Recommended Testing Time

• Waiting until the day of the missed period or later generally provides more accurate results to avoid false negatives.

• Testing too early can lead to false negatives because hCG levels may not have risen enough to be detected.

• Morning urine is best for testing as it is more concentrated and more likely to contain higher levels of hCG.

In summary, while some home pregnancy tests might detect pregnancy as early as 6 to 8 days after ovulation, waiting until the day of the missed period (about 10 to 14 days after conception) is the most reliable approach for a positive pregnancy test result.