Even though the majority of “at home pregnancy tests” are seen to be 99% accurate, there can sometimes be untrue readings, for one reason or another. There can be several reasons as to why you can be given a false-positive pregnancy test.
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Why Do I Have a False-Positive Pregnancy Test?
Sometimes a false-positive can occur due to simply using the Pregnancy Test incorrectly. It is very important to follow the instructions that come with the test, very closely. Even with the instructions, user error can still occur. A mistake people make when taking the pregnancy test is not setting a timer and sticking to the time given in the instructions when waiting for results and when dipping the dipstick into the urine. Another common mistake can be taking the test too early, which can also cause false-negatives or false-positives.
There are several medications that can lead to having a false-positive result, including anti-anxiety or anti psychotic medications. There are a few other medications which could affect your pregnancy test result;
- Methadone (Dolophine)
- Antihistamines, and
- Parkinson’s Disease medications.
Is It Normal to Have a Positive Pregnancy Test After a Miscarriage?
If you have had a recent miscarriage or carried out an abortion, you may continue to test positive for pregnancy. As your pregnancy progresses up to around the 10-week mark, your HCG levels will double every few days. If or when your pregnancy ends, the levels will slowly begin to decline. This can be a lengthy process for many. The hormone that is detected for pregnancy, can be held in your system for up to 6 weeks after the pregnancy has ended, being the exact reason for a false-positive.
If you have a positive pregnancy test, we advise for you to head to your GP to begin the journey and confirm that you are indeed pregnant.