Regardless of whether one is hoping for a positive or negative pregnancy test result, they want the correct result.

Timing is key for getting the most accurate pregnancy test result. So let’s answer an important question thousands of women have googled: is there a best time of day to take a pregnancy test? 

When is the best time to take a pregnancy test, morning or night?

When should I take a pregnancy test? The time of day you take a pregnancy test does matter to a certain extent. You’re more likely to get an accurate result if you take the test in the morning, especially if your period is not yet late. pregnancy-ovulation-test-comboHowever, no one can stop you from taking a home pregnancy test at night. If you really can’t wait until morning, go ahead and take one. The only issue is it might be inaccurate. You’re just more likely to get a false-negative, especially if your period isn’t that late, and especially if you’ve been drinking a lot of water.

If the test comes back positive at night, then you are most likely pregnant, as it is pretty rare to get a false-positive result (but not impossible). A false positive is a positive pregnancy test when you are actually not pregnant.

If your test comes back negative, just try again in the morning. You may get a different result.

Why are pregnancy tests more accurate in the morning?

You can take a pregnancy test at any time of the day, but there is a time that is a bit more reliable: first thing in the morning. Unfortunately, your coffee’s going to have to wait for a second! pregnancy-tests At-home pregnancy tests work by detecting the hormone human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) in your urine. Unless you get up in the night to pee often (or you drink water throughout the night), levels of hCG will be strongest with first-morning urine and you’re more likely to get a positive result if you’re pregnant.

Your test will still be valid if it’s the afternoon or you’ve already had water, but first-morning urine will result in a stronger results line. The stronger the line, the more accurate the pregnancy test results.

How else can I better optimize my timing with pregnancy tests?

There are a lot of options out there, which is why Stix created a definitive guide to pregnancy tests to help. We answer questions ranging from how soon can I take a test to how will my birth control affect my results. Check it out here.

The time between finding out your test results is stressful! We’re here for you. Please utilize our calming tips for what to do while you wait for your pregnancy test results.

Whenever it’s time for you to take a pregnancy test, Stix is here for you. Our easy-to-use pregnancy test comes in a pack of two. Over 99% accurate with FDA-cleared, OBGYN approved, early detection technology. Delivered right to your door in the most discreet envelope.