If you think you may be pregnant, a home pregnancy test is the first step to finding answers. These tests detect human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG), a hormone produced during pregnancy, but their accuracy can vary.
At InnerVisions HealthCare, we offer no-cost medical-grade pregnancy testing to give you results you can trust. Contact us today to get started.
Or, keep reading to understand what influences these tests so you can make informed choices about your next steps.
Timing of the Test
The accuracy of a home pregnancy test hinges on when you take it. Testing too early, before your missed period, can yield a false negative because hCG levels may be too low to detect. The Mayo Clinic recommends waiting until the first day of a missed period for best results, as hCG typically doubles every 48 hours in early pregnancy.
If you still get a negative test, testing later, ideally a week after a missed period, boosts reliability, reducing the chance of misleading results.
Test Sensitivity and Instructions
Not all tests are created equal. Some home pregnancy tests are more sensitive, claiming to detect days before a missed period. Always check the test’s sensitivity on the package and follow instructions precisely. Waiting for the exact time, usually 2 minutes or more, avoids misreading faint lines.
Using diluted urine (if you’ve been drinking lots of water) or checking results too early or late can skew results, so test when you first wake up. This is when hCG is most concentrated.
Medications and Medical Conditions
Certain factors beyond timing can interfere. Medications containing hCG, like some fertility treatments, can cause false positives, while other drugs, like birth control or antihistamines, typically don’t affect results.
Medical conditions, such as ovarian cysts or ectopic pregnancies, may produce hCG, leading to inaccurate positives or negatives. Miscarriages or abortions can also leave residual hCG, confusing test results for weeks.
Human Error and Test Quality
Mistakes happen. Misreading faint lines, using an expired test, or not storing it properly can compromise accuracy. Cheap or low-quality tests might lack the precision of trusted brands, increasing error risks.
Double-check the expiration date and store tests in a cool, dry place to ensure they work as intended.
Get Answers Today
If your home test result is unclear or you need certainty, contact InnerVisions HealthCare for no-cost medical-grade pregnancy testing. Our clinic offers accurate, confidential testing along with an ultrasound (if no medical contraindications) to verify your pregnancy.
Reach out today for a no-cost appointment.