Seeing two lines on a pregnancy test can bring a rush of emotions—whether excitement, fear, or confusion. But what if the result isn’t accurate?
While false negatives are more common, false-positive pregnancy test results can happen in certain situations. If you’re uncertain about your result, schedule a no-cost appointment at InnerVisions HealthCare for a medical-grade pregnancy test in a safe and confidential environment.
How Pregnancy Tests Work
Pregnancy tests detect a hormone called hCG (human chorionic gonadotropin), which your body produces after a fertilized egg implants in the uterus. When hCG rises to a detectable level (usually, this time is after your missed period), a test will return a positive result.
However, a few factors can cause a test to read positive even if you’re not currently pregnant.
What Can Cause a False Positive?
- Early pregnancy loss (chemical pregnancy): A fertilized egg may implant and trigger hCG production, but then stop developing shortly afterward. You could receive a positive pregnancy result for several days or weeks before hCG falls to undetectable levels.
- Fertility treatments or medications: Some medicines contain hCG, which can interfere with pregnancy test results.
- Medical conditions: In rare cases, ovarian cysts, menopause, or certain health issues can cause elevated hCG levels.
- User error or expired tests: Leaving a test sitting too long before reading the result or using an expired test can sometimes lead to incorrect results.
How to Be Sure
If you’ve received a positive test result, an ultrasound is the best way to confirm whether you’re truly pregnant. An ultrasound can verify that a pregnancy is developing in the uterus and help determine how far along you are, and ensure you haven’t miscarried.
Time to Get Answers
Verify your positive pregnancy test and learn about your pregnancy at InnerVisions HealthCare. We provide no-cost pregnancy testing and limited ultrasounds so you can get answers.
Schedule your no-cost appointment today to find out for sure.