Understanding False Positives and False Negatives

May 29, 2026

While pregnancy tests are generally accurate, it’s important to understand that false positives and false negatives can happen. Most of the time, this is due to timing issues. The timing of pregnancy testing can significantly affect how reliable your results may be.

Women’s Care Center Parkersburg offers lab-quality pregnancy testing and limited ultrasounds to confirm your pregnancy and provide accurate information. We also provide STI testing to protect your health. All of our services are complimentary.

Schedule your appointment today.

How Pregnancy Tests Work 

Pregnancy tests detect a hormone called human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG), also known as the pregnancy hormone.

This hormone begins to appear in the body after a fertilized egg implants in the uterus, around six to ten days after conception. Because hormone levels rise gradually, testing too early can sometimes affect the outcome.

According to the Mayo Clinic, it is recommended to take a urine home pregnancy test one to two days after your missed period using first morning urine, which is typically more concentrated.

What a False Positive Means 

A false positive occurs when a pregnancy test shows a positive result even though you are not currently pregnant.

Reasons for a false positive include:

• hCG levels are still present in the body after a recent miscarriage or pregnancy loss
• Certain fertility medications containing hCG
• Not following the test instructions correctly 
• Hormonal changes due to menopause and other conditions

Because of this, a positive test is usually followed by an ultrasound to confirm a pregnancy. 

What a False Negative Means 

A false negative occurs when a pregnancy test shows a negative result even though you may actually be pregnant.

Reasons for a false negative include:

• Taking the test too early 
• Diluted urine 
• Checking the test too soon

If your period is late and you still receive a negative result, it may be helpful to retest after a few days or seek further medical evaluation for clarity.

Get Clarity At Women’s Care Center, Parkersburg 

We want you to be able to move forward with clarity about your next steps.

Our medical team is here to answer your questions and provide support in a caring environment without pressure or judgment. If you are unable to visit our clinic, we offer a mobile unit. 

Contact us today to schedule your appointment.