how to read a pregnancy test

Pregnancy Midstream Test Instructions

happy couple looking at results of pregnancy test

Click here to order our BFP Midstream Early Tests.

For a Printable Version of Pregnancy Test Instructions, please click here.

INSTRUCTIONS

  1. The BFP Pregnancy Test can be performed at any time of the day. However, first morning urine is preferable.

  2. Remove the test from the pouch by tearing from the notch. Remove the cap.

  3. Hold the test by the thumb grip. Place the absorbent tip of the test in your urine stream until it is thoroughly wet (at least 5 seconds).

    If you prefer, you can urinate into a clean, dry cup or container and perform the test by dipping the absorbent tip of the test into the urine for at least 5 seconds.

  4. Lay the stick down flat with the results window facing up. Wait 10 minutes. If you wish, you can replace the cap to cover the absorbent tip.

READING YOUR RESULTS

While you are waiting for your result, you may notice a colored solution moving across the window. This is normal. You need to wait 10 minutes to confirm the result. The test should not be evaluated after 30 minutes.

1 Line = Not Pregnant

If only 1 pink line appears in the test control window, the test is negative and you can assume you are not pregnant.

2 Lines = Pregnant

If 2 pink lines appear, 1 in the test region (T) and 1 in the control region (C), the test is positive and you can assume you are pregnant. Even if the lines are very light in color, you can still assume you are pregnant.

Invalid Results

If a pink line does not appear in the test control window, the test is invalid. Invalid results may be an indication that the absorbent tip was not thoroughly saturated in urine. In this case, either urinate on the absorbent tip for additional time or re-dip the absorbent tip for at least 5 seconds and wait 10 minutes to read results. If there is still no pink line in the test control window, the test is invalid and testing should be repeated the following day with a new BFP Pregnancy Test. Follow the instructions exactly, making sure the absorbent tip is thoroughly saturated with urine. Each test is designed for a single use and should not be reused.

WHAT THE RESULTS MEAN

A positive result (two lines) indicates that your urine contains hCG (the pregnancy hormone) and you can assume you are pregnant. You should consult your doctor who is best able to further advise you on proper prenatal care. If you are taking medication, call your physician immediately to ensure it’s safe for your baby.

A negative result means that no hCG has been detected and you can assume you are not pregnant. If a week passes and your menstrual period is still delayed, you should take another BFP Pregnancy Test. If the result is still negative, there is little chance you are pregnant. However, you should follow up with your physician to determine why you are not menstruating.

If your menstrual cycle is irregular, it can be difficult to know the day you have missed your period. If your test indicated you are not pregnant and your menstrual cycle does not begin within a few days, you may have miscalculated your cycle and should take another BFP Pregnancy Test.

LIMITATIONS OF TEST

The test works only if the instructions are followed precisely. Although the test is highly accurate in detecting pregnancy, a low incidence of false results can occur. Check with your doctor if you get unexpected or inconsistent test results. Certain health conditions can also cause a false or irregular test result. The following factors should not affect the test results: alcohol, analgesics (pain killers), antibiotics, and birth control pills. The test should not be used after the expiration date. Do not use the test if the protective foil pouch is opened or damaged. BFP Pregnancy Tests, when performed by consumers, showed an accuracy of greater than 99% when compared to lab results. Pregnant women should not drink alcohol; if you have already used alcohol, stop; if you’re thinking about getting pregnant, abstain from alcohol. Alcohol consumption during pregnancy has been known to cause birth defects.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Q. How does the BFP Midstream Pregnancy Test work?
A. When a woman is pregnant, her body produces a special pregnancy hormone known as hCG (human Chorionic Gonadotropin). This hormone appears in the urine as early hCG has been detected and you can assume you are not pregnant.

Q. What if the testing line is very light in color, am I pregnant?
A. Yes. You should assume you are pregnant. The exact color of the lines is not important.

Q. Can the results change after a certain length of time?
A. A positive test result might not change after the test is completed and several hours thereafter. However, a negative test result should not be read after 30 minutes.

Q. What should I do if the test result is negative and I still suspect that I am pregnant?
A. You may have miscalculated when your period was due. If your period does not start within a week, repeat the test. If you still get a negative result and your period has not started, you should see your doctor.

Q. What if I am uncertain about the testing line?
A. If you are uncertain about the testing line, it is recommended that you retest three days later using another pregnancy test.

Q. What factors can give false positive results?
A. A positive result may be seen if you had a miscarriage or have given birth within the past 8 weeks (since hCG may still be in your system). Certain drugs which contain hCG or that are used in combination with hCG (such as Pregnyl, Profasi, Pergonal, APL) and some rare medical conditions such as trophoblastic disease, Islet cell tumors, and some carcinomas can also give false positive results. In these cases, you should ask your doctor for help interpreting your test results.

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