When Do Pregnancy Tests Stop Working? Understanding Accuracy and Limitations

Learn when pregnancy tests may stop working accurately and what to do if results are unexpected.

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Pregnancy tests continue to work throughout the entirety of a pregnancy, but accuracy can decrease as hCG levels become too high, causing a 'hook effect.' If you get unexpected results, consult a healthcare provider.

FAQs & Answers

  1. How long can pregnancy tests be used? Pregnancy tests can typically be used until the expiration date printed on the package, even during pregnancy.
  2. What causes the hook effect in pregnancy tests? The hook effect occurs when extremely high levels of hCG can interfere with the accuracy of the test results.
  3. What should I do if my pregnancy test gives an unexpected result? If you receive an unexpected pregnancy test result, it's best to consult a healthcare provider for further evaluation.
  4. How does the accuracy of pregnancy tests change during pregnancy? While pregnancy tests are generally reliable, their accuracy can decrease if hCG levels become excessively high, leading to potential false negatives.

Watch More

If you're interested in understanding more about pregnancy tests, check out our videos on the best practices for at-home testing and common misconceptions surrounding pregnancy.

  1. Can High hCG Levels Cause False Negative Pregnancy Tests? Discover if high hCG levels lead to false negatives in pregnancy tests and learn how to address this issue.
  2. Understanding False Results from hCG Tests: Causes and Recommendations Learn why hCG tests can be inaccurate and what to do if you suspect a false result.