is it possible to get a false positive on an early pregnancy test?

Question

I keep getting positive results from one EPT, but another brand shows negative results (consistently). My sister said you can't get a false positive, only a false negative (a false neg means your level just isn't high enough to detect yet). Is this true?

Answer 1

It's very rare to get a false positive because the test detects whether you have the hcg hormone in your body. This is the hormone your body produces when you are pregnant. Some brands are more sensitive than others. Check the boxes of the tests to see what the sensitivity levels are. I think the lowest level a test can predict is 25. The hcg hormone level doubles every 2-3 days when you are pregnant. Therefore, if you wait a couple of days and retest, you might see another positive. I bought a test at Dollar Tree and the sensitivity level was 25, so you could try one of those tests. You don't necessarily have to buy expensive tests, just look for the sensitivity level on the box. You can always just call your doctor and have them do a blood test to confirm your ept. That way, if the test is positive, you can start your prenatal care right away. If you haven't already, start taking prenatal vitamins - especially if you are ttc. The folic acid in them is so important in early fetal development - especially the 2 weeks before you even know you're pregnant. Best of luck to you.

Answer 2

I used to work at a family planning clinic, and palse positives are pretty much non-existent. False negatives are far more common.
It could be that the brand that is not showing a positive is not as sensitive as the other brand.
Positives usually come up fairly quickly, unless it is really early, then even a faint line is a positive(within the allotted time frame given by the manufacturer.)
Your sister is correct.You are pregnant.
(Do you have any other symptoms? Peeing alot, tiredness, stuffy nose, tender breasts, over sensitivity to certain smells?)

Good luck with whatever your choice may be.

Answer 3

Yes .
False positive EPT occurs due to

1) use of certain types of fertility drugs
2) less sensitive test / imprpper test( this is da most common reason).
3) hCG in the systems from a recent birth or miscarriage

Answer 4

You can get a false positive with certain fertility drugs, my Wife did.

The best pregnancy test is a blood test at your doctors.

Answer 5

no, you could get both of false results.. the best way to find the truth is to test another one.. or see a doctor for a better chance of knowing the truth..

Answer 6

you can only get a false negative...... your sister is right.. obviously these brands vary that is why you do a second test and then see a dr for a blood test... nothing inconclusive with that one..

Answer 7

That makes a lot of sense.