You can reliably take a pregnancy test about 12 to 16 days after ovulation, with 14 days post-ovulation being the optimal time for the first test. This timing aligns with when implantation typically occurs (6 to 12 days after ovulation), allowing enough time for the pregnancy hormone hCG to build up to detectable levels in urine

. Testing too early, before implantation or before hCG levels are sufficiently high, often leads to false negative results because the hormone hasn't reached a detectable concentration yet

. Some sensitive tests claim to detect pregnancy as early as 6 to 8 days after ovulation, but these early results are less reliable and a negative result should be confirmed by retesting after a few days

. The NHS and many experts recommend waiting until the first day of a missed period or about 21 days after unprotected intercourse for the most accurate results

. If you have a regular 28-day cycle, this usually corresponds to about 12-15 days after ovulation

. In summary:

• Earliest possible detection: around 6-8 days post-ovulation (blood tests may detect hCG earlier than urine tests)
• Reliable home urine test: 12-16 days post-ovulation, ideally 14 days
• Most accurate: on or after the day of your missed period, typically about 14 days post-ovulation or later

Testing with the first morning urine and following test instructions carefully improves accuracy

. If you test early and get a negative result but still suspect pregnancy, wait a few days and test again. This approach balances early detection with minimizing false negatives and emotional stress.