Why You Might Get the Wrong Result on a Pregnancy Test

Whether you’re excitedly hoping for a positive result or dreading the outcome, taking a pregnancy test can stir up emotions. Let us help you relieve some of the pressure. 

At HeartReach Center, we offer free and confidential pregnancy testing. Our skilled client advocates make sure it’s the right time to test and that it’s performed correctly. 

Schedule a free and confidential appointment today.

How Do Pregnancy Tests Work?

There are two types of pregnancy tests: blood and urine. The tests you purchase over the counter and the ones at HeartReach are urine pregnancy tests. 

After a woman becomes pregnant, her body begins producing human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG). It builds rapidly and eventually enters her blood and urine stream. A pregnancy test checks for the presence of hCG. If detected, you are most likely pregnant.

Is It Possible to Get the Wrong Result?

Taking the test at the right time and in the correct way is vital. It’s possible to get either a false-negative or a false-positive result. Here’s why:

A False-Negative Pregnancy Test

If you take a pregnancy test too soon or incorrectly, it may not detect the hCG hormone because your body hasn’t had enough time for it to move into your blood or urine. The test indicates that you are not pregnant when, in fact, you are. 

A False-Positive Pregnancy Test

Although less likely, it is possible to obtain a positive result without being pregnant. That’s because experts estimate that as many as 26% of all pregnancies end in a miscarriage. Because it takes time for the hCG hormone to leave your body after a miscarriage, you can get a positive result, but no longer be pregnant.

How Do I Take a Pregnancy Test Correctly?

If you’re concerned about taking a home pregnancy test correctly, come to HeartReach. We’ll help you administer the test properly.

If you want to take a home test, be sure to follow these steps:

• Ensure the test hasn’t expired. 
• Wait until a day or two after your missed period.
• Read the directions thoroughly before testing.
• Test in the morning when your urine is the most concentrated.
• Check the result after the recommended amount of time has passed.
• Test again in a couple of days to confirm the results.

Free and Confidential Pregnancy Services

If you need to take your first test or retest, come to HeartReach Center to ensure accurate results. One of our advocates can walk you through the process to ensure you administer the test correctly.

If your test is positive, we may be able to provide a free and confidential ultrasound. We recommend an ultrasound to get other vital information about your pregnancy.

Schedule an appointment online, call (907) 373-3456 during regular office hours, or reach someone after hours at (800) 712-4357. Our mobile medical unit may also be in your area. We’re always available for you. 

HeartReach does not perform or refer for abortion.