Should I take a pregnancy test? But I am still bleeding.
Can I take a pregnancy test if I’m bleeding? Will it be accurate? Yes, you can take a pregnancy test if you are bleeding, and it will be accurate if you follow the directions on the package. A helpful article reviewed by Dr. Carolyn Kay notes that small amounts of blood do not interfere with the test’s ability to detect the pregnancy hormone HCG. 42 The pregnancy tests we use here at the CPC are formulated to read correctly with low levels of hemoglobin (blood) present.43 According to the folks at WebMD, you can get a false positive from larger amounts of blood in the urine.
So, you did the pregnancy test and have a result. But reading your pregnancy test as positive or negative answers only one of your questions. The other question is “Why am I bleeding?” We will look at bleeding with negative pregnancy tests first, and then bleeding with positive pregnancy tests.
If the test is negative…
Maybe it really is your period and “typically a period is a reliable sign that you are not pregnant.” 42 Most home pregnancy test kits are able to measure HCG in your urine 10-14 days after intercourse. If you are more than 14 days after intercourse and you are still reading negative, the bleeding might be your period. If you are not yet passed the 14-day mark and are having light bleeding or spotting, you could be pregnant and having implantation bleeding but it is too early to get a positive test result. Consult with your medical provider if you have concerns or questions.
If the test is positive and I am still bleeding…
Some reasons for bleeding in early pregnancy include miscarriage and implantation bleeding.
What is implantation bleeding? WebMD describes implantation bleeding as “light bleeding from the vagina that happens in some women 10 to 14 days after conceiving a baby.” 44 It occurs as the embryo attaches itself to the inside of the mother’s uterus. Grow by WebMD has an explanation of this and many other pregnancy related topics.
What’s the difference between implantation bleeding and a miscarriage? If your bleeding is worsening and becoming heavy or is accompanied by cramping, contact your doctor to find out if you are having a miscarriage.
Will a UTI or yeast infection interfere with a pregnancy test?
According to PregWorld.org, neither a UTI or a yeast infection will interfere with the accuracy of a pregnancy test. 45 If you think you have either of these, your health care provider can provide diagnosis and treatment. While you are there, they can also confirm your pregnancy test, either positive or negative.
If you don’t live in Anchorage, StandUpGirl.com can help you find a free pregnancy center in your area.
Would you like help with your pregnancy test?
We have friendly staff available Monday- Friday to guide you through the pregnancy test, answer your questions, and connect you with community resources. Call today for an appointment.