Mollie Ezzie, MD
Christina Charles, MD
Obstetrics/Gynecology
Columbus Obstetricians & Gynecologists Inc.
7450 Hospital Drive
Dublin, Ohio 43017
Phone: (614) 434-2400

Q: Home pregnancy tests - how to choose?

A: Home pregnancy tests detect the amount of pregnancy hormone (hCG) found in your urine. Most tests cost between $8-20 and are available over the counter. The majority of tests require holding a stick in a stream of urine. Then a line or plus sign will appear in the result window if pregnancy is confirmed. It does not matter how faint or dark the result is, any line indicates a positive result. Testing for pregnancy first thing in the morning can boost the accuracy of results, due to concentrated levels of hCG. The test should also have a control window that indicates the test is working correctly. Without a line in the control window the test may be inaccurate.

In choosing a home pregnancy test, use only a test regulated by the FDA. If not clearly marked on the packaging, the pharmacist will be able to tell you. Be sure that the test has not expired, and carefully follow the instructions in the box. Inaccurately taking the test could result in false negative results.

Most pregnancy tests claim 99% accuracy. This is true 1-2 weeks after a missed period. Studies show that one brand, First Response, Early Pregnancy Test, consistently detected pregnancy at low levels of hCG, as early as one day after a missed period. Other tests missed up to 85% of pregnancies on the first day of a missed period. If a result is negative, the test should be repeated in a few days or a week. A test can be falsely negative when the test is done too early in pregnancy.