Nothing can quite put your mind at ease like a pregnancy test when you're late for your period, but which are the best pregnancy tests to buy in the UK?
Finding out whether or not you're pregnant is a big, life changing moment, so it's understandable that you want the most reliable and accurate pregnancy tests that are available on the market.
Best pregnancy tests at a glance:
• Best pregnancy tests overall: Clearblue Digital Pregnancy Test with 2 Tests - buy here on Amazon
• Best early testing pregnancy tests: First Response, Triple Check Pregnancy - buy here on Amazon
• Best date check pregnancy tests: Clearblue Pregnancy Test Ultra Early Triple-Check and Date Combo Pack - buy here on Amazon
Some pregnancy tests are designed to detect pregnancy before your period is meant to start, however others are to be taken when you have missed your period. It's important to check which type of pregnancy tests you are buying so you know when the right time to take the test will be.
The best pregnancy tests in the UK 2024:
Best pregnancy tests overall
Description
Clearblue is one of the most well-known pregnancy test brands. There are two tests in the box and this is great if you want to double-check if you're really pregnant or not. It'll also tell you how many weeks too which is especially exciting. This is a worldwide bestseller and for good reason, it's touted as the most accurate pregnancy test out there.
One review said: "I love these pregnancy tests and have always used these when I've been waiting to find out if I am pregnant. They are quite expensive compared to supermarket own brand but they are definitely worth buying to give you a fast result whether it’s negative or positive."
Pros
- Shows the number of weeks
- Can use them to test early
Cons
- If the screen gets marked, the result may not show
Best pregnancy tests for early testing
Description
Another good brand of pregnancy test is First Response. The package comes with three ways to test: a First Response, Digital and Rapid First Response test. The brand promises to give you results six days before the first day of your period (or missed period), which can be awesome if you are anxious to find out either way and can't wait a moment longer.
One review said: "I tested 4 days past having my embryo transferred (frozen IVF cycle) and got a faint positive. Tested again this morning at 5 days past and it was clear as day!"
Pros
- Over 99 percent accurate
- Thumb grip
Cons
- Some users say that the digital one may be faulty
Best sensitive pregnancy tests
Description
The One Step 5 x 10mIU Ultra Early Pregnancy hCG Midstream Tests are 99 per cent accurate, and can be used up to four days earlier than standard tests. It comes in a pack of five, and results can be read in just five minutes.
One review said: "I have a soft spot for these, as the very first test I used that revealed I was pregnant with my daughter was one of them. Entirely user friendly, and gave me a faint positive very early (I am told the pink dye tests are often the most sensitive to very early testing)."
Pros
- Easy to read
- Fast working
Cons
- Not suitable for freezing
Best multipack pregnancy tests
Description
Admittedly you may be getting up close and personal with your urine with these test strips but this bargain set includes 20 strips for you to use. Each urine test strip is in an independent pouch for easy usage. Simply immerse the strip into a sample of urine, take the strip out after three seconds and lay it flat, checking the results after three minutes.
One review said: "I was impatient and tested as soon as I got in from work having picked up the Amazon package on my way home. I fully expected a BFN as it was 7pm and I am only 11dpo but there was a very clear line. I am somewhat of a pregnancy test pro as I suffer with unexplained recurrent miscarriage (this is lucky no. 7 🤞) and I am super impressed with these lovely pink sticks. Incredible value for money and brilliant sensitivity."
Pros
- Large multipack
- Only needs dipping in urine for 5 seconds
Cons
- Lines may be light and tricky to see
Best date check pregnancy tests
Description
With the ability to test how many weeks you are, up to three plus, the Clearblue Pregnancy Test Ultra Early Triple-Check and Date Combo Pack can give you results up to six days before your missed period. The pack also comes with three tests, making it better value for money.
One review said: "The Clearblue Pregnancy Test Ultra Early Triple-Check and Date Combo Pack offers great value, exceptional sensitivity, and unsurpassed user-friendliness, making it an invaluable tool for those early days of pregnancy. A blend of both the traditional and digital aspects of pregnancy tests, it provides the assurance one needs during such a critical period. If you seek reliable and early results, I wholeheartedly recommend this Clearblue product!"
Pros
- Colour-changing tip
- Floodgate ™ technology
Cons
- Only three in a pack
Best pregnancy tests strips
Description
Working slightly different to standard pregnancy tests, the Wondfo Pregnancy Test 25 Strips Early Detection Pregnancy Tests are to be dipped into a cup of urine. The pack comes with 25 test strips and ten urine cups, and can detect up to six days earlier than your missed period.
One review said: "Gave me 15+ negative results and then my first positive. Double checked against other tests and all still correct. Now 8 weeks pregnant" Another wrote: "Was unsure as they were cheap but I have had 7 positive and even confirmed by another brand! Would recommend"
Pros
- Individually wrapped
- Urine cups included
Cons
- Not digital so it won't tell you how many weeks
Best supermarket pregnancy tests
groceries.asda.com
Description
This test is one step and easy to use. You get your results in three minutes with a rate of over 99% accuracy. Also you can use it as early as four days before your period is due.
Review: "Tested four days after my missed period. Both tests showed strong, dark test lines. After reading the reviews of false positives, I bought the Clear Blue digital tests, which confirmed the positive result. Really easy to use and well priced."
Pros
- Affordable price
- One step usage
Cons
- Some people experienced false positives
How do pregnancy tests work?
It's actually pretty simple!
"Pregnancy tests essentially work by checking your urine for a hormone called human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG), which is a hormone that your body only makes If your pregnant. This hormone is released when a fertilized egg attaches to the lining of your uterus and when pregnancy begins," explains Dr Cichi.
Home pregnancy tests involve urine look for how much hCG is present in your urine. At-home pregnancy tests usually involve placing drops of urine onto a chemical strip or placing this strip into your urine. The strip then detects hCG and you will need to wait a certain amount of time before the results show in the test window.
How soon can you do a pregnancy test?
If you're dreaming of being pregnant, it's understandable why you might be keen to take a test as soon as possible, but it is worth waiting a little while. Even if you've experienced pregnancy symptoms such as an increase in wet watery discharge or pregnancy fatigue, or period pain but no period, it's important to be patient. "You should wait to take a pregnancy test until the week after your missed period for an accurate result as this is when the test will be most reliable. If you are pregnant your body needs time to develop the HCG hormone, so it can be detected," says Dr Cichi.
"If you do not want to wait until your period, then you should wait at least 21 days after you’ve had sex. Some pregnancy tests can be used from as early as 8 days after conception. However, for accurate results, it’s best to take a test when your period is due and of course if your period hasn’t arrived."
How accurate are home pregnancy tests?
Generally, pregnancy tests are pretty much on the mark. Pregnancy tests are usually 99% effective which is the same accuracy rate as most urine pregnancy tests performed in a doctor's office.
According to the NHS, a positive pregnancy test is "almost certainly correct. However, a negative test result is less reliable." This could be because you don't follow instructions or that you do it too early e.g. just days after ovulation and you could get a false negative which means you will need to test again later.
Should you retest?
As above, pregnancy tests are very accurate and it is highly likely that the test is correct first time around providing you are following the instructions correctly. Understandably you might want the reassurance that the result is definitely correct and choose to do another time (or several times!). Several positive or negative pregnancy tests may well help the news sink in. We would also recommend checking the instructions of your test again to ensure you are doing everything right.
"The number of tests you take is a personal preference, and some women like to take a few to be sure. If you have taken a test and it says pregnant then it is highly unlikely to be wrong. I would suggest going to your GP for a further test if you are worried as this will put your mind at ease," explains Dr Cichi.
Can I get a pregnancy test on the NHS?
It is possible to get a pregnancy test on the NHS, but normally not at your GPs - you could make an appointment at your local Sexual Health Clinic. It's probably a lot quicker and easier to buy a pregnancy test!
What to do next?
If you have a positive pregnancy test result
Arrange an appointment with your doctor telling them that you took a test and it came back positive. From there, your doctor will be able to guide and advise you of your next steps. You'll be advised to make an appointment with the midwife, where your pregnancy will be confirmed.
If you have a negative pregnancy test result
If you were trying for a baby but had a negative pregnancy test result, try not to get too disheartened. It often takes several months or more to finally get there. If you are concerned about your fertility, please see your doctor.
If you're not trying for a baby, but are worried that your birth control is failing you, see your doctor so that you can find the best options available for you.
Samantha Ball is a Product & Lifestyle Writer for Mother&Baby and freelanced for the website for two years before joining the team full time. She's a mum of two and loves browsing for the best products and cute outfits.