Are you trying to conceive and wondering how long you should hold your pee before taking a pregnancy test? At Statcare, we understand that waiting to find out if you're pregnant can be an anxious time. That's why we've put together this guide to help you get the most accurate results from your pregnancy test.
Why Do You Need to Hold Your Pee for a Pregnancy Test?
When you're pregnant, your body produces a hormone called human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG). This hormone is present in your urine, and it's what pregnancy tests detect to determine if you're pregnant. However, hCG levels are highest in your first morning urine, so it's recommended that you take a pregnancy test first thing in the morning. If you can't take a pregnancy test in the morning, you should hold your pee for at least four hours before taking the test. This will give the hCG levels in your urine time to build up, making it easier for the test to detect if you're pregnant.
How Long Should You Hold Your Pee for a Pregnancy Test?
As we mentioned earlier, it's recommended that you take a pregnancy test first thing in the morning. This is because your urine is more concentrated in the morning, which makes it easier for the test to detect hCG. However, if you can't take a test in the morning, you should hold your pee for at least four hours before taking the test. It's important to note that holding your pee for too long can actually dilute the hCG levels in your urine, making it harder for the test to detect if you're pregnant. So, while it's important to hold your pee for a few hours before taking a pregnancy test, you don't want to hold it for too long.
Other Tips for Taking a Pregnancy Test
* Read the instructions carefully before taking the test.
* Use a timer to ensure you wait the recommended amount of time before reading the results.
* Don't drink too much water before taking the test, as this can dilute the hCG levels in your urine.
* If you get a negative result but still haven't gotten your period, wait a few days and take another test.
Book an Appointment with Statcare for Women's Health
Services
If you're trying to conceive or have other women's health concerns, Medical Health Authority is here to help. We offer a range of services, including urgent care, primary care, telehealth, multi-speciality care, mental health, women's health, nutrition services, and more. Our approach is cost-effective and provides superior quality services. We offer same-day appointments, minimal wait times, exceptional and empathetic staff, stunning clinic environments, a technologically driven approach with a comprehensive app, and extensive after-hours virtual care. Book an appointment with us today to learn more. Book an Appointment
Frequently Asked Questions
How long should you hold your pee for a pregnancy test?
You should hold your pee for at least four hours before taking a pregnancy test if you can't take the test first thing in the morning.
Why do you need to hold your pee for a pregnancy test?
You need to hold your pee for a pregnancy test because hCG levels are highest in your first morning urine. Holding your pee for a few hours before taking the test can help build up the hCG levels in your urine, making it easier for the test to detect if you're pregnant.
What should you do if you get a negative result but still haven't gotten
your period?
If you get a negative result but still haven't gotten your period, wait a few days and take another test. If you're still unsure, book an appointment with your healthcare provider to discuss your concerns.
What other women's health services does Statcare offer?
Statcare offers a range of women's health services, including urgent care, primary care, telehealth, multi-speciality care, mental health, nutrition services, and more. Book an appointment with us today to learn more. External Link 1 External Link 2