A false positive pregnancy test occurs when a pregnancy test shows a positive result even though a pregnancy is not continuing.
False positives are uncommon but can happen in certain situations.
Possible Causes of a False Positive
Possible causes may include:
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Recent pregnancy loss
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Chemical pregnancy
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Certain medications
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Medical conditions
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Testing errors
Why Medical Confirmation Matters
A medical evaluation and ultrasound may help confirm:
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Whether a pregnancy is developing
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Gestational age
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Pregnancy viability
Frequently Asked Questions
Can evaporation lines cause confusion?
Yes. Some test results may be misread if viewed outside the recommended time window.
Is ultrasound more accurate than a home pregnancy test?
Ultrasound provides additional information about pregnancy location and development.
Learn More About Pregnancy Testing
Understanding how pregnancy testing works may help women better interpret their results.