Skip to content

Over-the-Counter Pregnancy Test — Qualitative

Published: August 9, 2026Updated: August 17, 2026

An FDA-cleared home test that detects the presence of human chorionic gonadotropin to determine whether you are pregnant.

Quick summary

["A positive result usually means you are pregnant, while a negative result may need to be repeated if your period is late."]

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial TeamLast reviewed August 17, 2026Editorial policy

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
53414-9
Short code
FDA label OTC - Preg/breast feed
Synonyms
FDA label OTC - Preg/breast feed
Category
liver
Sample
serum
Container
Red-top tube (SST)
Units
N/A
Ref low
10
Ref high
40
Critical range
— – 500 N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
CPT
84484
SNOMED
302774002
Specimen volume
5 mL
Stability
Room temperature: 4h, Refrigerated: 24h, Frozen: 7d
Hemolysis max
500
Lipemia max
1000
Icterus max
500
TAT
4–24 hours
Order
routine

What is this test?

This is an over-the-counter pregnancy test that checks your urine for human chorionic gonadotropin, or hCG. This hormone begins to rise shortly after implantation and is the basis of most home pregnancy tests.

Why might I need this test?

You may use this test when your menstrual period is late or when you want to check for pregnancy before making health or medication decisions. If you are breastfeeding, a home pregnancy test can still detect hCG; breastfeeding itself generally does not cause a positive result.

How is the test performed?

You collect urine in a container and apply it to the test device as directed on the package. After the specified waiting time, a visible line or other displayed result indicates whether hCG was detected.

How do I prepare for the test?

Follow the instructions supplied with the specific test, check the expiration date, and use urine collected at the recommended time. Drinking a large amount of fluid beforehand may dilute the urine and make the result harder to interpret.

Reference range

Adult: 10-40 U/LN/A

Specimen: serum

No special preparation required. Avoid fatty meals before the test if possible.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

Home Pregnancy Test

Frequently asked questions

When is the best time to take a home pregnancy test?
Testing after a missed period generally provides a more reliable result than testing very early. If the result is negative but your period remains late, repeat the test according to the package instructions or contact a healthcare professional.
Can breastfeeding affect a home pregnancy test?
Breastfeeding usually does not change the result. A negative test can still occur if pregnancy is very early or hCG levels are below the test's detection limit.
What should I do if the result is positive?
Arrange confirmation and prenatal care with a healthcare professional. Also review any medicines or supplements with your clinician, including products used while breastfeeding.
  1. 1
    MedlinePlus — Laboratory TestsSource
  2. 2
    Lab Tests OnlineSource
  3. 3
    Mayo Clinic — Tests & ProceduresSource

Click any link to access the full source. PubMed Central (PMC) links provide free full-text access.

This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.

Medical Disclaimer

This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.

If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 17, 2026. · Read our editorial policy