Early Detection

• With today's modern technology, it may be possible to find out if you are pregnant even before your period is late. Home pregnancy tests are available now that you can take as soon as 3-4 days before your next menstrual cycle is due to begin. Even the slightest sign of the pregnancy hormone can be recognized by these tests. However, there is a chance of having false negative results. If you still do not have your regular menstrual cycle after taking an early detection test, you will definitely need to take a second test in case the results from the first test were incorrect.
  
  

Missed Periods

• If the due date for your regular menstrual period has come and gone and you are now 1 to 3 days late, it may definitely be time to take a home pregnancy test. If there is a possibility you could be pregnant, this is the best time to find out, so you can decide what steps to take next. If the results are negative, wait a few days, as your period may be late due to stress, medications you may be taking, or any number of reasons. If the results are positive, it is time to schedule an appointment with an OBGYN.
  
  

Stop Waiting

• When you have missed a period it is by no means the time to procrastinate. The idea of waiting up to 2 weeks to see if you "start" is wasting time that you could have been getting proper care. Waiting more than 2-3 days past the due date of your period will benefit no one. If you are pregnant, you need to be starting prenatal care. If you are not pregnant, you need to find out exactly why your period is late.
  
  A wide variety of inexpensive home pregnancy tests can help give you the answers you need within just a few short minutes. They also have a 97% rate of accuracy and can give you dependable results. If you think you may be pregnant, the best time to take a home pregnancy test could be right now.