If you have recently had unprotected sex or your birth control failed, you may be paying close attention to your body for any sign that something has changed.
Some women notice subtle shifts within a week or two of conception, while others feel completely normal until much further into pregnancy.
Keep reading to learn about the most common early pregnancy symptoms and the next steps you can take to find out for sure. Harbour Health is here to help you gain clarity in a calm, confidential setting. Schedule an appointment today.
Common Early Signs of Pregnancy
Every woman experiences pregnancy a little differently, but the most common early symptoms tend to include:
- A missed period
- Nausea, with or without vomiting
- Tender or swollen breasts
- Fatigue
- More frequent trips to the bathroom
Other signs are easier to overlook, such as:
- Mood swings
- Food aversions or new cravings
- Light spotting or cramping
- Bloating
- Constipation
- Nasal congestion
Because many of these signs can also be caused by stress, illness, or hormonal changes, you should not assume you are pregnant based on symptoms alone.
How to Confirm a Pregnancy
The only reliable way to know is to take a pregnancy test.
At-home tests check your urine for hCG, a hormone your body releases once a fertilized egg implants in the lining of the uterus.
For the most accurate result, wait until at least the day of your missed period, test first thing in the morning, and avoid drinking large amounts of fluid beforehand. Following the package directions closely can also help you avoid confusion.
Even with a careful approach, false negatives can happen, especially when a test is taken too early. If your at-home test is positive, or if you keep getting negative results but still feel pregnant, the next step is a lab-quality test at a clinic to confirm what is going on.
You Do Not Have to Figure This Out Alone
An unexpected pregnancy can feel overwhelming, and it is easy to feel like no one understands what you are going through.
At Harbour Health, our caring staff is here to walk with you, answer your questions, and help you understand what is happening in your body.
We offer free and confidential medical-grade pregnancy testing, limited OB ultrasounds, and one-on-one consultations.
After confirming your pregnancy, we can talk through your options and the resources available to you so you can make an informed decision about your health and future.
Contact us today to schedule your confidential appointment.
