False negative?
Question
I'm so confused - I think I'm pregnant, but I have taken two pregnancy tests and they were both negative. My body's changed in the past two weeks. I'm experiencing fatigue, increased appetite, and my vagina is no longer pink, it is purple and red. I have all these little bumps around my nipples now. My stomach is getting bigger and harder. Is it possible for me to have two false negative pregnancy tests?
Answer
It can be a very confusing and stressful time when you're unsure if a pregnancy test has given you an accurate result. Sometimes if a pregnancy test is taken too early, usually before three weeks have past, it is possible to get a false negative.
Most pregnancy tests state that they work as soon as a period is late (i.e. one day). If you do not have a regular cycle it can be difficult to know when a period is due. It is best to take the test three weeks after having unprotected sex as this is roughly how long it will take for the hormone levels to show up on the test.
There are various signs of being pregnant but these do vary from woman to woman, and not all women experience every symptom. The only way you can really find out for sure is to do a pregnancy test. Sometimes it can be helpful to do a test with your doctor (GP) or nurse, who can provide extra support and expertise.
If you are pregnant and it's been at least four weeks since your last period, you may find that:
- Your period does not start - although you may get some mild cramps, your breasts may feel heavy and full, and your nipples may be tingly or sensitive;
- You go off things like coffee or alcohol;
- There's an odd metallic taste in your mouth;
- You produce more saliva;
- You start to feel sick.
If you're under 25, you can get a free test at Brook with immediate results. You will also be able to talk through how you feel and what your options are, in confidence, which means no one will be told about your visit unless you want them to. Alternatively you could call and speak to a Brook advisor on 0800 0185 023.
You can also get a free test at a family planning clinic and some local doctors, or you can pay for a pregnancy test at the chemist. You can get a test there or buy one to do it yourself at home.
If you are pregnant, it's important to speak to one of these services as soon as possible to get advice about pregnancy and decide what you want to do next. If you're not pregnant, you may need to consider getting more information about contraception if you want to avoid unplanned pregnancy in the future.
Updated: 20/12/2007
Question answered by YouthNet in association with Brook
