Can Uterine Fibroids Cause False Positive Pregnancy Tests?

If there are uterine fibroids present, will a pregnancy test still show two lines even if not pregnant?

I have uterine fibroids and have undergone surgery less than three years ago.
Now I have discovered that I have a fibroid measuring 3.2 cm.
Last month, my period was a few days late, so I bought three different brands of pregnancy tests, and all of them showed two clear lines.
However, my period arrived shortly after.
I carefully read the instructions for the pregnancy tests, which mentioned that having fibroids can cause elevated hormone levels.
Therefore, I interpret this to mean that the test results may not be accurate.
Is the only option left to visit a gynecologist for further evaluation?

Miss Wang, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2016/03/29

Dr. Cao Guotao reply Obstetrics and Gynecology

Hello, it is possible to have an early pregnancy that ends in miscarriage; generally, fibroids do not have an impact.
Wishing you good health.

Reply Date: 2016/03/29

More Info

Uterine fibroids, also known as leiomyomas, are non-cancerous growths that develop in the uterus. They are quite common and can vary in size, number, and location. One of the concerns for women with fibroids is whether these growths can interfere with pregnancy tests, potentially leading to false positives.

To address your question, uterine fibroids themselves do not directly cause false positive pregnancy tests. Pregnancy tests work by detecting the presence of human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG), a hormone produced by the placenta shortly after a fertilized egg attaches to the uterine lining. The presence of fibroids does not produce hCG; therefore, they should not affect the accuracy of a home pregnancy test.

However, there are a few factors to consider that might lead to confusion regarding pregnancy test results in women with fibroids:
1. Hormonal Imbalances: Fibroids can sometimes be associated with hormonal imbalances, which can lead to irregular menstrual cycles. If your cycle is delayed, you might take a pregnancy test, which could yield a positive result if you are indeed pregnant. If your period then arrives shortly after, it could lead to confusion about the test's accuracy.

2. Chemical Pregnancy: This occurs when a fertilized egg implants in the uterus but does not develop properly. In such cases, a pregnancy test may show a positive result due to the presence of hCG, but the pregnancy is not viable, leading to an early miscarriage or a late period.

3. Other Conditions: Certain medical conditions, such as ovarian cysts or ectopic pregnancies, can also lead to elevated hCG levels, which might cause a positive pregnancy test without a viable pregnancy.

4. Test Sensitivity: Different brands of pregnancy tests have varying sensitivities to hCG. Some tests may detect lower levels of hCG than others, which could lead to discrepancies in results.

Given your situation, where you have experienced a positive result on multiple tests followed by the onset of your menstrual cycle, it is advisable to consult with a healthcare provider. They can perform a blood test to measure hCG levels more accurately and determine whether you were pregnant or if there are other factors at play.

Additionally, since you have a history of fibroids and have had surgery in the past, it is essential to monitor your condition regularly. Fibroids can sometimes lead to complications during pregnancy or affect fertility, so discussing your concerns with a gynecologist or reproductive specialist would be beneficial.

In summary, while uterine fibroids do not cause false positive pregnancy tests, they can be associated with conditions that may complicate your menstrual cycle and overall reproductive health. If you have any doubts or concerns about your pregnancy status or the impact of fibroids on your health, seeking professional medical advice is the best course of action.

Similar Q&A

Understanding Uterine Fibroids: Diagnosis and Misinterpretation Risks

Recently, during a CT scan of my lower abdomen, a suspected uterine fibroid was unexpectedly found. I would like to know if this type of examination will definitely detect it, or is there a possibility of misdiagnosis? What is the likelihood of that? I sometimes experience menstr...

Dr. Huang Jianzhong reply Obstetrics and Gynecology
Recently, during a CT scan of the lower abdomen, a suspected uterine fibroid was unexpectedly found. I would like to know if this type of examination will definitely detect it, or is there a possibility of misdiagnosis? What is the likelihood of that? I sometimes experience menst...

Can Pregnancy Tests Be Inaccurate? Understanding Rare Cases

In the United States and the United Kingdom, there have been cases where doctors were unable to detect pregnancy despite clear signs such as fetal movement or pregnancy symptoms. Even with ultrasound and blood tests, the results were completely negative, and some women continued ...

Dr. Zhang Kunmin reply Obstetrics and Gynecology
A physician must not administer treatment, prescribe medication, or provide a diagnosis without a personal examination. Hello, based on your description, it is advisable to consult with a physician for an examination before discussing and seeking further advice. Thank you! Wishin...

Can High Antibody Levels and Uterine Fibroids Affect Pregnancy?

Hello Dr. Tsao, At the end of last year, during a health check-up, I was diagnosed with hypothyroidism and thyroid nodules, as well as uterine fibroids. The doctor mentioned that my thyroid levels were within a normal range at 4 and advised that I didn't need medication. La...

Dr. Cao Guotao reply Obstetrics and Gynecology
Hello, regarding the issue with antibodies, it may be best to consult an endocrinologist. Frequent urination, if the uterine fibroids are not large, should not be related. However, if discomfort persists, it is advisable to see a urologist. Wishing you good health.

Preoperative Assessments for Uterine Fibroid Surgery: What to Expect

Hello, what are the preoperative examinations for uterine fibroid surgery? Is it possible to detect pregnancy before the surgery rather than discovering it during the operation? Note: I previously inquired about having sexual intercourse in mid-March without protection, followed ...

Dr. Huang Jianzhong reply Obstetrics and Gynecology
What preoperative examinations are required for uterine fibroid surgery? Is it possible to detect pregnancy before the surgery rather than discovering it during the operation? Answer: It is advisable for the physician to perform a pregnancy test prior to the surgery.