How Much Does a Pregnancy Test Cost? A Complete Guide

Pregnancy tests are one of the first tools people turn to when they suspect they might be pregnant. Whether you're trying to conceive, concerned about a missed period, or just want peace of mind, it's helpful to know how much pregnancy tests cost—and what you're really paying for.

But the price of a test can vary widely, ranging from just $1 to $30 or more. So what influences that price? Is a more expensive test necessarily better? And how can you make sure you're getting a test that's reliable without spending more than you need to?
This guide covers all those questions and more to help you make an informed and confident choice.

Understanding the Different Types of Pregnancy Tests

Home Urine Tests

Most people use at-home urine pregnancy tests, which detect the hormone hCG (human chorionic gonadotropin) in urine. These tests are available in various forms, including:

• Test strips: Basic, affordable, and reliable when used correctly.
  
• Midstream tests: More convenient to use but usually cost a bit more.
  
• Digital tests: Display results like “Pregnant” or “Not Pregnant” on a screen and often cost the most.
  

Blood Tests at a Clinic or Lab

A blood pregnancy test must be performed by a healthcare provider and is typically ordered when:

• You need to confirm a pregnancy early.
  
• There are health concerns like ectopic pregnancy or miscarriage.
  
• You're undergoing fertility treatments.
  

Cost: Blood tests are usually more expensive, ranging from $50 to over $200 depending on whether you're insured.

Early Detection Tests vs. Standard Tests

Early detection tests claim to detect pregnancy up to 5 days before a missed period and usually cost a bit more—around $10–20 each. Standard tests tend to be cheaper and just as accurate when used after a missed period.

 

What Influences the Cost of a Pregnancy Test?

Test Sensitivity (hCG Detection Threshold)

Tests that can detect lower levels of hCG (such as 10–25 mIU/ml) are more sensitive and often more expensive.

Pro Tip: For accurate early detection without breaking the bank, try the MomMed Pregnancy Test Strips, which have a 25 mIU/ml sensitivity. These high-sensitivity strips are affordable, easy to use, and come in bulk packs that are ideal if you're testing frequently.

Brand and Technology

Big-name brands like Clearblue or First Response tend to be priced higher, partly due to marketing and brand trust. Digital options also add to the price tag. However, they offer the same basic accuracy as more affordable manual strip tests when used correctly.

Packaging and Quantity

You’ll often pay less per test when you buy:

• Multi-packs
  
• Combo kits (like ovulation + pregnancy tests)
  
• Test strips (as opposed to midstream or digital)
  

Retailer or Channel

Where you buy matters:

• Drugstores: Typically more expensive for name brands.
  
• Online retailers: You can find better deals, especially in bulk.
  
• Dollar stores: Surprisingly, some $1 tests are just as accurate (though less sensitive).
  
• Clinics or hospitals: May offer free or low-cost tests, especially at Planned Parenthood or community health centers.

Is a More Expensive Pregnancy Test More Accurate?

It's a common belief that a higher price tag means better quality—but does that apply to pregnancy tests? Let’s break down whether spending more actually gives you more reliable results.

Accuracy vs. Price

Most home pregnancy tests sold in the U.S. are over 99% accurate when used correctly and at the right time—regardless of price. The FDA regulates these tests, so both budget and premium brands must meet the same standards for hCG detection.

So why the price difference?

• Accuracy is similar across most brands (especially after your missed period).
  
• Price reflects extra features, not more sensitive science.
  

In other words, you're often paying for how the result is delivered, not how accurate the test is.

Digital vs. Manual Tests

• Digital tests show results in words like “Pregnant” or “Not Pregnant,” removing the guesswork from interpreting faint lines.
  
• Manual line tests require reading a control line and a test line, which can sometimes cause confusion, especially if the line is faint.
  

While digital tests are more user-friendly, their internal testing mechanism is often the same as that of cheaper manual tests.

When Price Reflects Convenience, Not Quality

Higher-priced tests usually come with:

• Digital screens
  
• Ergonomic design
  
• Early detection claims
  
• Better packaging or branding
  

These are nice-to-haves, especially for first-time testers, but they don’t necessarily improve accuracy.

If you're testing frequently (e.g., while trying to conceive), you might prefer budget-friendly test strips that are just as reliable for detecting hCG.

A great option for accurate yet affordable testing is the MomMed Pregnancy Test Strips. These strips offer clinical-grade sensitivity (25 mIU/ml), come in bulk, and are ideal for early tracking—without breaking the bank.

 

Where to Buy Pregnancy Tests (and How Prices Vary)

Drugstores (CVS, Walgreens, etc.)

• Price Range: $8–$25 per test
  
• Upside: Easy access, trusted brands
  
• Downside: Higher cost per test
  

Online Retailers (Amazon, Brand Websites)

• Price Range: $0.50–$2 per test when bought in bulk
  
• Upside: Affordable, discreet delivery, more choices
  
• Downside: Can take time to ship
  

Dollar Stores

• Price Range: $1–$2 per test
  
• Upside: Budget-friendly
  
• Downside: May have higher hCG thresholds (less sensitive)
  

Clinics and Hospitals

• Price Range: Free to $200+
  
• Upside: Medical-grade accuracy, professional follow-up
  
• Downside: Insurance might be needed; cost varies widely

How to Choose the Right Test Based on Your Situation

Choosing a pregnancy test isn’t one-size-fits-all. Your situation—whether emotional, financial, or medical—can influence what type of test makes the most sense. Here's how to match your needs with the right test.

First-Time Tester

If you're testing for the first time:

• Look for easy-to-read results. Digital tests are great for beginners because they display clear results like "Pregnant" or "Not Pregnant."
  
• Choose a midstream option. These are user-friendly—no need to collect urine in a cup or interpret faint lines.
  
• Pay attention to sensitivity. Look for tests that can detect 25 mIU/ml or lower for earlier results.
  

Tip: Read reviews and avoid unfamiliar brands if this is your first test. A bit of guidance from a pharmacist or online research can be reassuring.

Trying to Conceive (Frequent Testing)

If you're tracking ovulation and testing multiple times per cycle:

• Go for affordability and quantity. Bulk packs of pregnancy test strips save money and let you test often without hesitation.
  
• Consider combo kits. These include both ovulation and pregnancy tests—ideal for people actively trying to conceive.
  

For example, the MomMed Ovulation and Pregnancy Test Combo Kit includes high-sensitivity hCG and LH strips, helping you monitor your entire cycle affordably and effectively.

Testing Very Early

If you can’t wait until your missed period:

• Use an early detection test. Look for tests with sensitivity around 10–15 mIU/ml for early testing, though keep in mind early tests can be less reliable.
  
• Test with first morning urine. hCG is most concentrated then.
  
• Be prepared to test again. If it’s negative, retest in a day or two.
  

Remember: Even early detection tests aren’t 100% accurate before a missed period. If results are unclear, try again with a fresh test in a few days.

Need for Medical Confirmation

If your test is positive and:

• You have irregular cycles,
  
• Symptoms like abdominal pain or spotting arise, or
  
• You have a history of ectopic pregnancy or miscarriage…
  

Then it's best to:

• Visit a healthcare provider. They may recommend a blood test or ultrasound.
  
• Track your hCG over time. Serial blood tests can confirm pregnancy progression.

 

Tips for Saving Money Without Compromising Accuracy

You don’t have to spend a fortune to get reliable pregnancy test results. Here are smart ways to save without sacrificing quality.

Buy in Bulk Online

• Best for: Those testing frequently (e.g., TTC).
  
• How it helps: Reduces the cost per test—sometimes down to less than $0.50 each.
  
• What to check: Make sure the product is FDA-approved or CE-marked for accuracy and safety.
  

Bulk test strips are just as accurate as single-pack tests if used correctly.

Consider Combo Packs (Ovulation + Pregnancy Tests)

• Best for: Those tracking ovulation and testing for pregnancy.
  
• How it helps: Combo kits usually offer better value and simplify the shopping process.
  
• Bonus: You get insight into your fertility window and can test early.
  

Combo kits like those from MomMed are ideal for ongoing cycle tracking without running out of supplies at a critical time.

Use HSA/FSA Accounts If Eligible

• Best for: U.S. users with health spending plans.
  
• How it helps: Lets you buy tests tax-free using pre-tax income.
  
• Where to check: Retailers like Amazon often note if items are HSA/FSA-eligible.
  

Keep your receipts and check if digital or branded kits are covered by your plan.

Look for Coupons and Discounts

• Best for: Everyone!
• Where to look:
  • Manufacturer websites
  • Amazon Subscribe & Save
  • Newsletters from pregnancy care brands
• Extra tip: Sign up for pregnancy or fertility apps—many offer promo codes.

Conclusion

Pregnancy tests don’t have to cost a fortune. Whether you're testing once or several times a month, understanding your options can help you choose the right test for your needs and budget. Most important? Use your test correctly, and always follow up with a healthcare provider if you have questions about your results.

With affordable and reliable options like MomMed Pregnancy Test Strips and Ovulation Test Strips, you can test with confidence—without worrying about cost.