Does Taking Birth Control Pills Affect Pregnancy Test Results?

Pregnancy test questions?

Hello doctor, I would like to ask if continuing to take emergency contraceptive pills without confirming whether I am pregnant will affect the pregnancy test results.
For example, could it show negative even if I am pregnant?

LinLin, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2017/09/23

Dr. Huang Jianzhong reply Obstetrics and Gynecology

Continuing to take preconception contraceptive pills without confirming pregnancy will not affect pregnancy test results.
For example, if you are pregnant, it will still show as not pregnant.

Reply Date: 2017/09/23

More Info

Taking birth control pills while trying to determine if you are pregnant can lead to some confusion regarding pregnancy test results, but generally, hormonal contraceptives like birth control pills do not directly affect the accuracy of home pregnancy tests. These tests work by detecting the hormone human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG), which is produced by the placenta shortly after a fertilized egg attaches to the uterine lining.
When you take birth control pills, they work primarily by preventing ovulation, thickening cervical mucus, and thinning the uterine lining, which makes it less likely for a fertilized egg to implant. If you are already pregnant, continuing to take birth control pills is not recommended, as it may pose risks to the developing fetus, especially in the early stages of pregnancy. However, the presence of the hormones in the birth control pills does not interfere with the production of hCG, which is what pregnancy tests are designed to detect.

That said, if you are taking birth control pills and suspect you might be pregnant, it is crucial to stop taking the pills and consult with your healthcare provider. If you take a pregnancy test while on the pill and it shows a negative result, but you believe you might be pregnant, it is advisable to wait a few days and retest or seek a blood test from your doctor, which can provide more accurate results.

It is also important to note that some women may experience irregular bleeding or spotting while on birth control pills, which can sometimes be mistaken for a period. This can add to the confusion regarding whether one is pregnant or not. If you experience symptoms such as nausea, breast tenderness, or fatigue, which are common early signs of pregnancy, it is wise to take a pregnancy test regardless of your birth control use.

In summary, while birth control pills do not affect the accuracy of home pregnancy tests, they can complicate the situation if you are unsure about your pregnancy status. If there is any doubt, it is always best to consult with a healthcare professional who can provide guidance based on your specific circumstances.

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