Q: Why is the OPK test positive for so long?

A: An ovulation predictor kit (OPK) tests the hormone LH, which rises shortly before ovulation. If your OPK tests positive for more than 2-3 days there may be an abnormal prolonged increase in your LH hormone. This is not considered normal, and you may want to get checked by your doctor. A prolonged rise of the LH hormone could happen under the following circumstances:

  • PCOS (Polycystic Ovary Syndrome).
  • Premature ovarian failure.
  • Testing while on clomiphene.
  • Testing while on certain injectable ovulation inducing agents such as: Pergonal, Humegon, and Repronex, all of which are made from LH+FSH and may cause a false reading. Other medications such as Gonal-F, Follistim and Fertinex contain only FSH and should not effect testing.