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Can You Reuse a Home Pregnancy Test?

To confirm a pregnancy, many women take a pregnancy test.

Some might attempt to recycle the first pregnancy test to verify whether the results are negative. After all, the cost of buying multiple tests can quickly add up. This begs the question: can you reuse a pregnancy test? Or should you always use a new one? Is it possible to reuse a digital pregnancy test kit? Continue reading to find the answers to these questions, plus advice for those trying to conceive.

 Is it possible to reuse a pregnancy test? Why or why not?
Is it possible to reuse a pregnancy test? Why or why not?

Understanding the Functioning of Pregnancy Tests

Pregnancy tests work by detecting the presence of human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG), a hormone produced in the body after the implantation of an embryo in the uterus. This hormone is present in the urine of pregnant women, and the test strip in a pregnancy test is designed to react with this hormone. If hCG is present, a chemical reaction occurs on the test strip, leading to a change in colour or the appearance of a line or symbol, indicating a positive result. Home pregnancy tests are widely available in Australia and are known for their accuracy.

The Evolution of Pregnancy Tests

Pregnancy tests have come a long way over the years. The first home pregnancy tests were introduced in the 1970s and were much more complicated and less accurate than today’s tests. These early tests were also much more expensive, which might have led some women to try to reuse them. However, today’s tests are not only more accurate but also much more affordable. In Australia, you can find various pregnancy tests at various price points, making it easier to use a new test each time.

Can You Reuse Pregnancy Tests?

While you might be tempted to reuse a pregnancy test kit, you should not expect an accurate result. Any results that show will be invalid and can give false hope or disappointment. Given that pregnancy tests are reasonably affordable to buy in bulk — particularly at Fertility2Family — there is little need for you to reuse a test.

Why Doesn’t a Reused Pregnancy Test Kit Work Accurately?

At-home pregnancy tests are designed to offer reliable results when used once. The test strip is ordinary and highly sensitive; the chemicals react with the urine when you pee on it. These chemicals will not produce the same, accurate reaction when tested again, meaning the test should be disposed of after use.

If you want to repeat the test, use a new strip for precise results rather than reusing a negative pregnancy test.

The Risks of Reusing Pregnancy Tests

Reusing a pregnancy test can lead to false results, which can cause unnecessary stress or confusion. A reused test may show a false positive due to residual chemicals from the first use or a false negative if the test’s ability to react with hCG has been compromised. In Australia, it’s recommended to use a new, high-quality home pregnancy test for each attempt to ensure the most accurate results.

The Emotional Impact of Inaccurate Test Results

Beyond the scientific reasons for not reusing a pregnancy test, there are also emotional considerations. Getting a false positive or false negative result can lead to a rollercoaster of emotions. For those trying to conceive, a false positive can lead to unwarranted excitement and joy, followed by disappointment and confusion. On the other hand, a false negative can cause unnecessary worry and stress. You can trust the results and avoid these emotional pitfalls by using a new test each time.

Can you dip a pregnancy test twice?
Can you dip a pregnancy test twice?

Can You Get a Positive Result After Reusing the Pregnancy Test Kit?

Reports that some women get a positive result after peeing on a pregnancy test two times are nonexistent and inaccurate. As soon as a home pregnancy test dehydrates, an evaporation line appears. Often, the line is colourless, but as you try to add water to it and rinse the stick, the present dye takes root in the line, which may seem to be a positive result.

If you have been trying to conceive for a long time, this result can cause false hope. The best thing you can do is purchase pregnancy tests in bulk, so there’s no need to reuse and recycle.

Are There Any Reusable Pregnancy Tests Kits?

Pregnancy test strips contain hCG strips that healthcare professionals recommend you use only once. If the HCG strip has any contact with the moisture in the air, it will quickly react, which is a one-time process. Don’t trust any manufacturers that advertise their pregnancy tests are reusable — it’s simply not possible.

 Is it possible to reuse a pregnancy test? Why or why not?Is it possible to reuse a pregnancy test? Why or why not?

Can you reuse a ‘Digital Pregnancy Kit’?

By detecting rising pregnancy hormones, a digital pregnancy kit lets you know whether you are pregnant as early as before you miss your period.

Even though a digital test kit may seem more sophisticated, as it shows a digital sign rather than a coloured strip, this type of test also relies on the presence of hCG and cannot be reused.

So, it’s clear that you cannot reuse a home pregnancy test. The good news is that Fertility2Family offers ovulation kits and pregnancy tests to purchase in bulk, increasing the affordability and accessibility of your fertility journey. For more insights on fertility, check out the comprehensive range of blogs on our website.

Affordable Options for Pregnancy Testing in Australia

While the cost of pregnancy tests can add up, especially for those trying to conceive over a longer period, affordable options are available in Australia. Many online retailers offer bulk packs of pregnancy tests at a reduced cost per test. This can make it more cost-effective to use a new test each time, ensuring the most accurate results without reusing tests.

Australian pregnancy test FAQ

What is the best way to store unused pregnancy tests in Australia?

New pregnancy tests should be stored in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. It’s important to keep them in their original packaging until they are ready to be used to protect them from moisture and other environmental factors that could affect their accuracy. Always check the expiration date before using a pregnancy test, as expired tests may not provide accurate results.

Can the time of day affect the accuracy of a pregnancy test?

Yes, the time of day can affect the accuracy of a pregnancy test. The pregnancy hormone hCG is usually more concentrated in the urine in the morning, so taking the test first thing in the morning can increase accuracy, especially in the early stages of pregnancy. However, most modern pregnancy tests available in Australia are sensitive enough to detect hCG at any time of the day.

Can certain medications affect the results of a pregnancy test?

Most medications, including birth control, antibiotics, and pain relievers, should not affect the results of a pregnancy test. However, hCG medications, such as fertility treatments, can cause a false positive result. If you’re taking any medication and are unsure about its effects on a pregnancy test, it’s best to consult a healthcare professional in Australia.

How soon after a missed period should I take a pregnancy test?

Most pregnancy tests can accurately detect pregnancy from the first day of your missed period. However, waiting a week after a missed period can give more accurate results as the level of hCG in the urine will be higher. If you test too early and get a negative result but still suspect you’re pregnant, it’s a good idea to wait a few days and test again.

Can drinking a lot of water affect the results of a pregnancy test?

Yes, drinking a lot of water before taking a pregnancy test can dilute your urine and make it harder for the test to detect hCG. This is especially true in the early stages of pregnancy when hCG levels are still relatively low. For the most accurate results, take the test first thing in the morning when your urine is most concentrated.

The Importance of Proper Pregnancy Test Usage

Proper usage of pregnancy tests is crucial for obtaining accurate results. This includes using a new test each time, following the instructions provided with the test, and using the test at the right time. Most pregnancy tests are accurate when used on the day of or after the missed period, as hCG levels may not be high enough to be detected in the early stages of pregnancy.

Sources:

Fertility2Family only uses trusted & peer-reviewed sources to ensure our articles’ information is accurate and reliable.

Achwal, A. (2023) Digital pregnancy test – results and accuracy, FirstCry Parenting. Available at: https://parenting.firstcry.com/articles/digital-pregnancy-test-results-and-accuracy/ (Accessed: 19 October 2023).

Betz D, Fane K (2023) Human chorionic gonadotropin – statpearls – NCBI bookshelf. Available at: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK532950/ (Accessed: 19 October 2023).

Tonic Health Media Limited (2016) Pregnancy testing, MyDr.com.au. Available at: https://mydr.com.au/babies-pregnancy/pregnancy-testing/ (Accessed: 19 October 2023).

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Evan Kurzyp

Evan is the founder of Fertility2Family and is passionate about fertility education & providing affordable products to help people in their fertility journey. Evan is a qualified Registered Nurse and has expertise in guiding & managing patients through their fertility journeys.

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