Have you taken a pregnancy test & it came back positive? You think to yourself, "No.... this can't be right"?! Or maybe it came back negative & you felt the same way. Several factors can contribute to a false reading, so let's review them here.
"Urine pregnancy tests are 99% accurate", according to WebMD LCC (2005-2021). You can go to a medical facility such as your primary doctor's office or local Pregnancy Resource Center (PRC) to perform a lab quality urine test. You can also go to your doctor to ask about receiving a blood test. To confirm a pregnancy, an ultrasound or physician exam must be done. Ultrasounds are available for free at a PRC, such as Family Life Center.
If you want your urine pregnancy test to be the most accurate, follow these two tips from WebMD:
- "Wait until the first day of a missed period."
- "Do the test first thing in the morning when your urine is more concentrated." (2005-2021)
If you followed these steps & still feel like the reading is false, other factors can contribute to inaccurate readings. WebMD states that you could have a false-positive result if you have:
- "Blood or protein in your pee"
- "Certain drugs, such as tranquilizers, anticonvulsants, hypnotics, and fertility drugs" in your system. (2005-2021)
False-negative results could occur if:
- "The test is past its expiration date
- You took the test the wrong way
- You tested too soon
- Your pee is too diluted because you drank a lot of fluids right before the test
- You are taking certain medications, such as diuretics or antihistamines" (WebMD, 2005-2021)
If you feel like you followed the appropriate protocols when doing an at-home urine pregnancy test & still feel the reading is false, you must visit your doctor to confirm your pregnancy. If your test reads positive & you do not want to be pregnant, make sure to contact your local Pregnancy Resource Center, such as Family Life Center. They can educate you on your options & help you have all that you need to feel more equipped & empowered.
Resources:
WebMD LLC, 2005-2021. https://www.webmd.com/baby/guide/pregnancy-tests#1