Types

• Pregnancy tests are available in most pharmacies and grocery stores. Store brand tests are usually as reliable as, and cost much less than, name brand test. Some tests are capable of detecting 20 mIU of hCG, while others are only sensitive at levels of 50 mIU of hCG.
  When buying a home pregnancy test, you should look on the box to get some idea of how sensitive the test will be. Some tests can be taken as early as five days before the woman expects her period, while others should not be taken until the first day of the missed period.
  
  

Timing

• For women who know when they ovulated, it is recommended they take a test 14 days from the ovulation date. Although a test could detect pregnancy earlier, it is best to wait to prevent the disappointment that comes with a false negative. Keep in mind that the hCG hormone isn't produced until the embryo has implanted itself into the uterus. The time from ovulation to implantation can vary from five to 12 days. Once implantation has occurred, hCG levels begin multiplying.
  Women who were not trying to conceive but have missed a period should take a pregnancy test just to be safe. Also, if a woman is experiencing common pregnancy symptoms, such as nausea, vomiting, unexplainable fatigue or weight gain, she may want to test.
  
  

First Thing

• The hCG hormone is most concentrated in the morning when you first wake up. This is because you have not consumed fluids for a substantial amount of time, so your urine is not diluted.
  If you do not want to wait until morning, try to test after fasting from fluids for a few hours.