Did you miss your period this month? Did you recently have unprotected sex and are worried you might be pregnant? No matter what happened, if there’s a chance you’re pregnant, you’re likely feeling overwhelmed and worried about what to do next.
While taking a pregnancy test is the first step in finding out if you’re pregnant, there are early symptoms to look out for that could indicate pregnancy. However, it’s important to note that early pregnancy symptoms can mimic those of other health conditions, and not every woman will have every symptom.
Top Early Pregnancy Symptoms
During pregnancy, your body is flooded with a special mixture of hormones that tell it to nourish and maintain a pregnancy. These hormones can cause symptoms in some women.
If you notice any of the following symptoms, you might be pregnant.
- Missed menstrual period. Still expecting your period this month, and it hasn’t yet arrived? Pregnancy might be to blame. Those early pregnancy hormones tell your body to stop menstruating and instead thicken your uterine lining to support the pregnancy.
- Tender, swollen breasts. Your breasts may respond to early pregnancy hormones by becoming more sensitive, tender, and swollen as they prepare for breastfeeding (similar to how many women feel right before their period). You might be pregnant if you notice that your bra feels tighter and your breasts feel different than normal.
- Fatigue. Feeling more tired than usual? Those early pregnancy hormones might be the culprit. You might be pregnant if you can’t seem to wake up or feel the need to take naps more than normal.
- Frequent trips to the bathroom. Need to urinate more often than usual? During pregnancy, your body produces more blood. In return, your kidneys work harder to filter the extra blood levels, which causes you to urinate more often. If you’re going to the bathroom often and with greater urgency, this could mean you’re pregnant (especially if this symptom accompanies other signs of pregnancy).
- Feeling nauseous and/or vomiting. Early pregnancy hormones can cause you to feel sick to your stomach—morning, noon, or night. And sometimes, this feeling can cause you to vomit. While many factors can cause nausea and vomiting, you could be pregnant if they’re accompanied by other pregnancy symptoms.
Next Steps
Taking a pregnancy test is the next step if you notice any of the above symptoms. Pregnancy testing detects a special hormone called hCG in your body. If taken after the first day of your missed menstrual period, most at-home pregnancy tests claim to be 99% accurate at detecting pregnancy.
If you receive a positive result, getting an ultrasound is the next step. This scan will confirm your pregnancy and give you other essential information you need to stay safe.
At Pregnancy Care Center, we understand what you’re going through and are here for you. We offer free pregnancy testing and limited ultrasounds to give you the answers you need right now.
Contact us today to schedule your free, confidential appointment.