Pregnancy Testing Before a Test or Procedure: What You Need to Know

Please speak with your care team if you have any questions or concerns about the pregnancy test or if you are worried about any problems the day of the procedure.

Why Do I Need to Take a Pregnancy Test Before Certain Tests or Procedures?

A pregnancy test helps your care team know which tests, procedures and medications are safe for you.

Do All Teenage Girls Have This Test?

Yes. All girls who have started their periods (menstruation) take a pregnancy test before some procedures or before receiving certain medications.

How Will the Pregnancy Test Be Done?

There are 2 ways to do the pregnancy test:

• Urine sample (this is the most common)
• Blood work (if you are already having blood drawn for other reasons)

Can the Test Be Done at Home With a Pregnancy Test From the Drug Store?

No. All pregnancy testing is done by your care team at MGfC.

If I Know I Am Not Pregnant, Do I Still Need to Take the Test?

Yes. The pregnancy test is an important step before having certain tests or procedures or before receiving certain medications.

What Happens After I Get the Results?

• If the test is negative (-), your team will go ahead with the scheduled test or procedure.
• If the result is positive (+), the care team will share the result with you privately. They will also help you decide what to do next. The care team will try to connect you with other providers who can help you. Your doctor will talk with you about whether you can still have the test or procedure.

Your care team understands that getting a positive pregnancy test result before a test or procedure can be unexpected. This does not happen very often.

If you think you may be pregnant, please call your doctor’s office before your test or procedure.

Rev. 2/1018. Reviewed by the MGfC Family Advisory Council. Mass General for Children and Massachusetts General Hospital do not endorse any of the brands listed on this handout. This handout is intended to provide health information so that you can be better informed. It is not a substitute for medical advice and should not be used to treatment of any medical conditions.