Free Pregnancy Tests in Dillon County

How Soon Can I Take a Pregnancy Test?

We recommend waiting to take a pregnancy test after you've noticed you have missed your period for the most accurate results. This is because your body needs time to produce enough of the pregnancy hormone (hCG) that the test can detect.

If you're really eager to find out, tests can typically be taken earlier, up to 6 days before your missed period, but the results may be less accurate. Lab-quality tests, like you would receive at our center, offer a more accurate picture since they can typically detect pregnancy earlier than an at-home test. 

If you are unsure when you possibly conceived or have an irregular period, we can help. Make an appointment or text with a nurse 24/7 at (843) 536-0002  for help navigating some of those difficult questions. 

The key differences between at-home pregnancy tests and the tests we provide are accuracy, sensitivity, and confirmation.

Our lab quality test is very accurate and can often detect pregnancy earlier than home tests. Plus, we offer options counseling, confirm results and determine conception dates.

Can a Pregnancy Test Be Wrong?

Yes, a few things can affect the result of a pregnancy test:

1. Testing Too Early: If you test before your missed period, the test might not detect enough of the pregnancy hormone yet, which can lead to a false negative.

2. Diluted Urine: If you drink a lot of water before taking the test, your urine might be too diluted, which can make it harder for the test to find the hormone.

3. Expired Test: Using a test that’s past its expiration date can give incorrect results.

4. Incorrect Use: Not following the instructions carefully, like not waiting long enough before reading the result, can also affect accuracy.

5. Certain Medications: Some medicines can affect the test results, so it’s good to check with a doctor if you’re taking any medications.

These are all topics that we can discuss and help prevent when you receive a no-cost pregnancy test at our center.

Do Pregnancy Tests Expire?

Pregnancy tests have expiration dates. Using an expired test can lead to inaccurate results.

Pregnancy tests use special chemicals (antibodies) that bind to hCG in your urine to show a line or symbol. Over time, those chemicals can break down or lose strength, so an expired test might not pick up hCG even if you’re pregnant—or less commonly, it could show a faint line by mistake. You’ll find the expiration date printed on the test’s box or foil wrapper; after that date, the test’s accuracy isn’t guaranteed.