A late period can raise many questions. If you’re unsure what it means or what to do next, getting accurate information can be a helpful first step.
At Lilli Women’s Center, we offer medical-grade pregnancy testing and limited ultrasounds in a supportive, private setting. Our services are free and confidential, and our medical professionals are here to help you clarify your next steps.
Schedule an appointment today.
Step One: Take a Pregnancy Test
While stress, travel, illness, and hormonal changes can delay a period, pregnancy is one possible reason for a missed cycle. According to the Mayo Clinic,1 pregnancy tests detect a hormone called human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG), which the body begins producing in early pregnancy.
For the most accurate result, take a pregnancy test at least one day after your missed period. If your cycle is irregular or you’re unsure when your period is due, waiting about three weeks after intercourse can help improve accuracy.
If you take a home pregnancy test, keep these tips in mind:
- Check the expiration date
- Follow the instructions carefully
- A faint line can still indicate a positive result
- If the control line does not appear, the test is invalid
Because timing matters, coming to Lilli Women’s Center for pregnancy testing can help reduce uncertainty. Our pregnancy testing is administered by a registered nurse in a supportive and welcoming setting.
If the Result Is Positive
If your test is positive, the next step is usually a limited ultrasound. At Lilli Women’s Center, ultrasounds are performed by a Registered Diagnostic Medical Sonographer.
An ultrasound can help estimate how far along you might be, whether the pregnancy appears to be located in the uterus, and whether it appears to be developing as expected. In early pregnancy, this may include checking for a detectable fetal heartbeat, which can help identify signs of possible miscarriage.
In some cases, a pregnancy can develop outside the uterus (ectopic pregnancy), which requires immediate medical attention. An ultrasound can help identify whether further evaluation may be needed.
If the Result Is Negative
If your test is negative but your period still doesn’t begin, waiting a few days and testing again may be helpful. Sometimes a negative result happens because the test was taken too early, before pregnancy hormone levels were high enough to detect.
If your period remains late and tests continue to be negative, a healthcare provider can help evaluate other possible causes.
You Don’t Have to Decide Alone
No matter what options you’re considering, having accurate medical information first can help you make a confident decision. If your period is late, Lilli Women’s Center is here to help you take the next step with confidence.
Connect with us today for the information you need.
References
- Mayo Clinic. Home pregnancy tests: Can you trust the results? https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/getting-pregnant/in-depth/home-pregnancy-tests/art-20047940
