Pregnancy Tests

When To Have A Pregnancy Test

If you think you might be pregnant, it’s important to get a test as soon as possible to find out for sure. It can be a scary time and it is easy to try and ignore it. But don’t worry, whatever the result, there are people that you can talk to.

Pregnancy tests are very reliable and can be done 2-3 weeks after unprotected sex, or on the first day of a missed period. Before this time the level of hormones produced by the pregnancy are too low to show up on the test and you may get a ‘false negative result’.

If a test is negative but your period still doesn’t arrive a week later, another test should be taken. Periods can be late for other reasons including stress, change in diet or other health conditions. You should seek medical advice if you are concerned, this could be your GP, medical centre or Letterkenny Women’s Centre or iIash clinic.

What if the test is positive?

If you are pregnant, it’s important to get advice as soon as possible to help you decide what you want to do next. (see unplanned section for more information).