Can a UTI Cause a False Positive Pregnancy Test?

A urinary tract infection (UTI) cannot directly cause a false positive pregnancy test. Pregnancy tests work by detecting the hormone hCG (human chorionic gonadotropin) in your urine, which is produced during pregnancy. A UTI does not affect this hormone, so it shouldn't change the results.

However, there are a few scenarios where a UTI might indirectly lead to confusion:

1. Contaminated Urine Sample: If the urine sample is contaminated with blood, bacteria, or white blood cells due to the UTI, it might make the test difficult to read, though this usually doesn’t result in a false positive.
2. Misinterpretation: Symptoms of a UTI, such as frequent urination, might be confused with early pregnancy symptoms, leading to unnecessary testing or misinterpretation of results.

If there’s any doubt, it’s best to retake the test or consult a healthcare provider for further evaluation.

UTI medications, such as antibiotics commonly prescribed for urinary tract infections, do not cause a false positive pregnancy test. Pregnancy tests work by detecting the hormone hCG (human chorionic gonadotropin) in urine or blood, and UTI medications do not interfere with the production or detection of this hormone.

According to Healthline, certain medications containing hCG are used to stimulate ovulation, which can influence the results of a pregnancy test. However, these medications are not prescribed for treating urinary tract infections (UTIs).

If you get a positive result on a pregnancy test while taking UTI medication and you’re unsure of the result, it’s advisable to:

1. Retake the Test: Consider taking another test a few days later to confirm the result.
2. Consult a Healthcare Provider: If there's any confusion, your healthcare provider can perform a more accurate test or provide guidance based on your situation.

In summary, UTI medications should not cause a false positive pregnancy test.