Even though there are several reasons why a menstrual period might be late, if there is a possibility a woman might be pregnant, she should have a reliable pregnancy test as soon as possible. Other causes of a missed period can be stress, illness, change of diet or routine, or travel.
Most Family Planning Clinics, doctors and drug stores can do a pregnancy test, using a small amount of the woman's urine. The woman may give a sample of urine at a clinic or may take a sample from home. Results are usually ready in a few hours.

A doctor or clinic will keep all information confidential if you ask. You can also buy a home pregnancy testing kit at a drug store and do the test done at home.

Occasionally, there are false readings. If the test results are negative, or not pregnant, but the woman does not have a menstrual period within two weeks she should have another test done right away.

If the results are negative, or not pregnant, and the woman does not want to have a baby, she can talk to a doctor or counsellor about birth control, to see which method is best for her and her partner.

If the test is positive, or pregnant, the woman has two choices: to continue the pregnancy or to terminate it. The message on Pregnancy Decisions, in the Pregnancy Menu, deals with a woman's choices in this situation. If you are in this situation, you can also talk with someone close to you: your partner, a family member or a friend.
For more information about how and where to get a pregnancy test, you can call a local Planned Parenthood organization or Public Health Unit .