Understanding False Positives and False Negatives

April 28, 2026

When you’re facing an unexpected pregnancy, a test result that doesn’t seem right can leave you feeling scattered.

Pregnancy tests are generally reliable, but they aren’t perfect. Understanding why results can sometimes be misleading helps you know what steps to take.

At Women’s Care Center, a licensed healthcare professional is available to walk you through your results in a warm, welcoming setting. Our pregnancy testing is complimentary and completely confidential. 

Schedule your appointment today.

Why False Negatives Happen

A false negative occurs when you are pregnant, but the test shows a negative result. This is more common than most people realize and is usually a timing issue.

Pregnancy tests detect hCG, the hormone your body produces after a fertilized egg implants in the uterus. If you test too early, hCG may not yet be at detectable levels even if you are pregnant. Testing one to two days after a missed period gives you a more accurate window. Testing with first-morning urine, when hCG is most concentrated, also improves reliability.

Other factors that can affect accuracy include diluted urine from drinking large amounts of fluids, not following test instructions carefully, or using an expired test. If your period hasn’t come and something still feels off, testing again or coming in to see us is always worth doing.

Why False Positives Happen

A false positive, where a test reads positive but you are not pregnant, is less common but does occur. One of the more frequent causes is an early pregnancy loss. When a fertilized egg implants briefly and then stops developing, hCG can remain in the body long enough to produce a positive result even though the pregnancy is no longer progressing.

Certain fertility medications containing hCG, some ovarian conditions, and hormonal shifts associated with menopause can also cause a positive reading that doesn’t reflect an active pregnancy.

What Comes After a Positive Test

A positive result, whether from a home test or confirmed here, is only the beginning. An ultrasound is the next important step because it tells you things a test simply cannot: whether the pregnancy is developing, how far along you are, and where it is located. Our licensed healthcare professionals can help determine whether a limited obstetrical ultrasound is the right next step for you following a positive test.

You don’t have to figure this out alone. Schedule your complimentary appointment today. We’re glad you reached out.

Women’s Care Center does not provide or refer for abortions.

All abortion information sourced in this blog is based on accurate information at the time of writing.