A missed period is often the first sign you’re pregnant, but it doesn’t necessarily mean that. Hormonal changes, stress, and other factors can cause a missed or late period. If you missed your period but your pregnancy test is negative, there could be a few reasons why.
We understand how confusing this can be. Our team offers free, medical-grade pregnancy testing, providing you with accurate information and clarity about your next steps. Contact us to schedule your free testing appointment today.
Why You Might Get a Negative Test Result
1. It’s too early to test.
Pregnancy tests work by detecting the hormone human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG), which your body produces after a fertilized egg implants in the uterus. If you test too soon, especially before or right after your missed period, your hCG levels may still be too low to detect.
2. Diluted urine.
Drinking large amounts of fluids before testing can dilute your urine, making it harder for the test to pick up hCG. For the best chance at an accurate result, take the test first thing in the morning when your urine is most concentrated.
3. Irregular cycles or delayed ovulation.
If your cycle isn’t consistent, you may have ovulated later than usual, meaning your period and your detectable hCG levels could both appear later than expected.
4. User or test error.
Not following the instructions precisely or using an expired test can lead to inaccurate results. Always check the expiration date and carefully read the directions before testing.
What to Do Next
If your test is negative but your period still hasn’t started after a few days, wait a bit and test again. If it’s been a week or more without a period—or you’re having pregnancy symptoms like nausea, fatigue, or breast tenderness—it’s time to get a lab-quality pregnancy test.
A Hope Center offers no-cost, medical-grade pregnancy testing and, if positive, limited obstetrical ultrasounds to confirm your pregnancy and estimate how far along you are.
Get the Answers You Need
Uncertainty can be stressful, but you don’t have to navigate it alone. Visit A Hope Center for accurate information and caring support. All services are confidential and free of charge.
Schedule your appointment today to find clarity and confidence about what’s next.
A Hope Center does not provide or refer for abortions.