Fake pregnancy tests used to coerce marriage face legal risks in Poland

The sale of fake pregnancy tests on platforms like Allegro is a legal phenomenon because these items are marketed as novelty gag gifts rather than medical devices. Some individuals use these products to deceive partners into believing they are pregnant, often with the intent of forcing a marriage, maintaining a relationship, or securing financial benefits.

Under Polish law, such actions can carry significant legal consequences. If the deception involves blackmail to force a specific action, it may be classified as coercion under Article 191 of the Penal Code, punishable by up to 3 years in prison. If the goal is financial gain, such as obtaining co-ownership of property, it may constitute fraud under Article 286, which carries a penalty of up to 8 years in prison. Additionally, Article 15¹ of the Family and Guardianship Code allows men to seek the annulment of a marriage based on error.