Most at-home pregnancy tests claim to be 99% accurate. But what does that really mean?

Urine pregnancy tests are convenient and widely used by most women. They detect the hormone hCG, which your body produces during pregnancy. When used correctly and at the right time, they can be very accurate. However, several factors can affect your results.

False negatives are more common than many people realize. This often happens because the test is taken too early, before hCG levels are high enough to be detected. Taking a test later in pregnancy can also cause a false negative. Drinking too much water beforehand can dilute your urine, lowering hormone concentration and leading to inaccurate readings.

False positives are less common, but they can occur due to certain medical conditions or medications.

If you think you may be pregnant, the most reliable next step is a lab-grade pregnancy test administered with professional support. Taking a pregnancy test can feel overwhelming, and stress or confusion can increase the chances of error at home.

Choices Women’s Clinic offers free, confidential pregnancy testing with same-day results. Testing in a supportive and safe environment can give you clarity and peace of mind about your pregnancy options.

Schedule your free pregnancy test appointment online today and take the next step with confidence.