Accuracy of consumer performed in-home tests for early pregnancy detection

Am J Public Health. 1986 May;76(5):512-4. doi: 10.2105/ajph.76.5.512.

Abstract

We investigated the accuracy of the in-home pregnancy test in early pregnancy detection. A total of 109 women volunteered to perform their own pregnancy test using one of three brands. Kit accuracy ranged from 45.7 per cent to 89.1 per cent (95 per cent confidence interval), differing from the 97.4 per cent average of manufacturer claims. Sensitivity was calculated at 56 per cent, while specificity was 83 per cent. Predictive value of a negative result was 56 per cent and the predictive value of a positive test was 83 per cent.

Publication types

  • Case Reports
  • Comparative Study

MeSH terms

  • Adolescent
  • Adult
  • Anxiety
  • Chorionic Gonadotropin / urine
  • Educational Status
  • Evaluation Studies as Topic
  • False Positive Reactions
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Income
  • Menstruation
  • Pregnancy
  • Reagent Kits, Diagnostic*

Substances

  • Chorionic Gonadotropin
  • Reagent Kits, Diagnostic