When you follow the instructions, pregnancy tests are known to be incredibly accurate. That being said, there is a chance that a woman may get either a false negative or a false positive any time that she takes a home pregnancy test. Why would this happen? Here are some of the most common reasons for false pregnancy test results.Not Reading the Pregnancy Test Directions
The first and foremost thing that you should do prior to taking a pregnancy test is read the directions. Even if you have taken one in the past, you may need to refresh your memory on what exactly you need to do. Also, never assume that one pregnancy test brand has the same exact instructions as another pregnancy test brand. Some pregnancy tests may require you to pee on the stick or dip it in a cup of urine, while others may require you to use a dropper for the urine.
Taking the Pregnancy Test on the Wrong Day
A very common reason for getting false negative pregnancy test results is taking it at the wrong time. The best time to take a pregnancy test is on or after the day of your first missed period. There are some pregnancy tests which can provide you with early results, but it is important to take a close look at the instructions. Pregnancy test results may not be entirely accurate days prior to your first missed period. If you do not know when your period regularly occurs, it's ideal to wait until you're sure it would have came.
Taking the Pregnancy Test at the Wrong Time of Day
Also keep in mind that your pregnancy test results will be the most accurate if you take the test when you first wake up in the morning because your H-hCG hormone levels will be the highest at this time. The reason that the hormone levels will be the highest then is because your urine will be much more concentrated because it is assumed that you have not urinated for several hours. You should always avoid drinking a lot of water prior to taking the pregnancy test because you may dilute the levels of this hormone.
Reading the Pregnancy Test Results Too Early or Late
One of the main reasons that women get false pregnancy test results is because they do not time it accurately. If the directions for the pregnancy test box say that the results will appear within one to three minutes, this means that they will appear during this time frame. Setting a timer for two and a half minutes is ideal in this scenario. Once the three minutes are up, the pregnancy test may show a false result.
Medications or Medical Conditions Cause False Pregnancy Results
It is possible for medications or medical conditions to cause false pregnancy test results. Women who are taking fertility medications, for example, may experience a false reading. There are also certain types of cancer which can lead you to experience a false pregnancy test result. The reason that medications and medical conditions cause false results is because they can cause an increase or decrease in your H-hCG hormone levels.
The most important thing that you can do is ensure that you are following the instructions when taking a pregnancy test. If you don't, your chances of getting a false negative or positive pregnancy test are greatly increased. Also keep in mind that the best way to find out whether or not you are really pregnant is to have your doctor give you a blood test. There is always a chance that you have purchased a defective pregnancy test.
