Why is the pregnancy test strip still positive after a medication abortion?

Under normal circumstances, a positive test result after a medical abortion may be related to factors such as the duration of drug action, improper use or inaccuracies of the test strip, re-pregnancy, intrauterine residue, or uterine infection. It is recommended to seek timely medical attention and receive appropriate treatments—such as general management or medication—under a doctor's guidance. The specific analysis is as follows:

1. Duration of Drug Action

After a medical abortion, hormone levels in the body require some time to gradually return to normal. Therefore, in the short term following the abortion, human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) levels may not have fully decreased, leading to a positive result when using a pregnancy test strip. It is important to avoid excessive fatigue, get adequate rest, and support physical recovery.

2. Improper Use or Inaccuracy of Test Strip

The accuracy of a test strip is closely related to its proper use. If the test strip has expired, become damp, or is used incorrectly, it may affect the results and lead to errors. Before using a test strip, ensure it is within its expiration date and follow the instructions carefully. Also, store the strips properly to prevent moisture exposure or use beyond their expiry date, thereby minimizing potential inaccuracies.

3. Re-pregnancy

After a medical abortion, a woman’s ovulation and menstrual cycle may change. If effective contraception is not used, she may become pregnant again. In such cases, the pregnancy test will also show a positive result. To confirm the diagnosis, further blood tests and color ultrasound examinations are needed.

4. Intrauterine Residue

Sometimes, a medical abortion may fail to completely expel all pregnancy tissue. Remaining tissue can continue producing hCG, causing elevated hCG levels in urine and resulting in a positive test. This condition is often accompanied by symptoms such as vaginal bleeding, abdominal pain, and fever. Follow your doctor’s advice to take medications such as Yimucao Granules, Xinshenghua Granules, or Wuji Shenghua Capsules for treatment.

5. Uterine Infection

If post-abortion care is inadequate, uterine infection may occur, triggering an inflammatory response. Infection can cause abnormal elevation of hCG levels, leading to a false-positive test result. Symptoms often include fever, vaginal bleeding, and foul-smelling vaginal discharge. Under medical supervision, antibiotics such as Amoxicillin Capsules, Cefaclor Capsules, or Levofloxacin Hydrochloride Capsules may be prescribed for treatment.

During the recovery period, it is recommended to maintain good hygiene of the external genitalia, avoid overexertion and strenuous exercise, which can help promote physical recovery.