If you’re facing an unexpected pregnancy, taking a pregnancy test can bring a rush of emotions. Whether the result is positive or negative, it’s normal to pause and wonder, “Can this be wrong?” Pregnancy tests are helpful tools, but they aren’t perfect, and understanding how they work can help you know what to do next.
At Black Hills Pregnancy Center, we offer no-cost lab-quality pregnancy testing, so you don’t have to sort through uncertainty on your own. If your test result leaves you with questions, schedule an appointment today. We’re here to help you find clarity.
How Pregnancy Tests Work
Pregnancy tests detect a hormone called human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG). Your body begins producing hCG after a fertilized egg implants in the uterus. Early on, this hormone is present in very small amounts and rises gradually over time.
Because hCG levels build day by day, timing plays a big role in test accuracy. Testing too early or not following instructions carefully can sometimes lead to confusing results.
When a Test Shows Positive but You’re Not Pregnant
A false-positive result means a test indicates a pregnancy when there isn’t one. While this is uncommon, it can happen.
One possible reason is a very early pregnancy loss, often called a chemical pregnancy. In this situation, implantation occurs, and hCG is produced briefly, but the pregnancy stops developing early. Even after the loss, hCG may remain in your body long enough to trigger a positive result.
In rarer cases, fertility medications containing hCG, certain ovarian conditions, or hormonal changes related to menopause can also interfere with results. These situations aren’t common, but they can add to confusion.
When a Test Is Negative, but Pregnancy Is Still Possible
False-negative results are more likely than false positives and usually happen when testing is done too soon. If hCG levels haven’t risen enough yet, the test may not detect a pregnancy, even if you are pregnant.
Testing later in the day or after drinking a lot of fluids can also dilute urine and make hCG harder to detect. Using an expired test or reading results outside the recommended time frame can affect accuracy as well.
For best results, it’s recommended to test one to two days after a missed period and use first-morning urine. If your period doesn’t start or symptoms continue, retesting after a few days is a good idea.
Why Follow-Up Testing Matters
Home tests can be a starting point, but they can’t confirm a pregnancy on their own. Follow-up testing with lab-quality pregnancy testing provides clearer answers. If a pregnancy is confirmed, an ultrasound may be recommended to better understand what’s happening.
At Black Hills Pregnancy Center, we offer no-cost, confidential services so you can get accurate information in a supportive, friendly environment.
You Don’t Have to Figure This Out Alone
Uncertainty can be stressful, but you don’t have to face it by yourself. Whether your test results feel confusing or you just want reassurance, we’re here to help.
Schedule your no-cost pregnancy testing appointment today at Black Hills Pregnancy Center. We’ll walk with you through the next steps and help you move forward with confidence and care.
