Q&A: Could My Pregnancy Test Be Wrong?
Q: I took a home pregnancy test 28 days after the date of possible conception. The results came out negative. What are the chances the results could be incorrect? I ask because I haven't gotten my period yet. Thanks.
A: Home pregnancy tests are over 90% accurate in diagnosing a pregnancy. The test measures the level of HCG (human chorionic gonadotropin), which is the "pregnancy hormone." Usually the HCG is at a level detectable in urine at about the time of an expected period, or about 14 days after conception. There are several reasons why you may not have gotten your period and still have a negative pregnancy test.
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There is a slight chance that the EPT may have been a false negative. Repeating the test can help to rule this out. If you have symptoms of pregnancy such as morning sickness, you should see your doctor for confirmation of your home test results.
If it is confirmed that you are not pregnant, it could be that you are experiencing a variation in your menstrual cycle. Very few women have consistent 28-day cycles throughout their lives. If you ovulate a little later than usual, your period will come later. This could happen as a result of stress, or if you have recently stopped using a birth-control pill, or for no apparent reason.
If you still do not have a period after a period of 2-3 months, you should consult your doctor. Not having a period could be a signal of a medical problem such as an under active thyroid or a disorder with your pituitary gland. These disorders should be diagnosed and corrected as soon as possible, especially if you are trying to conceive.
April C. Sanchez, M.D.
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Dr Sanchez lives with her husband and two boys ages 5 and 18 months in Mandeville, Louisinana. She is a Board Certified OBGYN with a degree from Louisiana State University Medical School. She completed her residency through the Tulane University Medical School Residency Program. She also received a Surgical Excellence Award.
She is now practicing Obstetrics and Gynecology at Total Woman Care, in Manderville, Louisiana. The Total Woman Care website, (http://www.totalwomancare.com) is an "Advanced" Obstetrics and Gynecology Practice that cares and provides for the needs of women with total Compassion, Empathy, and Understanding. Dedicated to Provide Obstetrics and Gynecology Related Information for the Women of West St Tammany Parish.