Did you miss a period? Have you been experiencing strange physical symptoms? If you recently had unprotected sex (or your birth control method failed), you’re likely worried that you might be pregnant.
While taking a pregnancy test and following up with an ultrasound are the only ways to know for sure if you’re pregnant, many women also experience early pregnancy symptoms.
Symptoms of Early Pregnancy
At the moment of conception (when the sperm meets the egg), particular hormones cause physical changes to take place. These changes can cause the following symptoms:
- A missed menstrual period. This is often the first symptom of pregnancy. Early pregnancy hormones tell your uterus to prepare for nourishing a pregnancy, which causes your uterine lining to thicken rather than shed.
- Sore, swollen breasts. If your bra is fitting tighter lately, or if your breasts feel more sensitive and tender, pregnancy could be to blame. Those early pregnancy hormones are already preparing your breasts for breastfeeding.
- Nausea and/or vomiting. Often referred to as “morning sickness,” nausea and/or vomiting might happen in early pregnancy and can occur any time of the day. If you’ve been feeling sick to your stomach for no apparent reason, you could be pregnant.
- Increased urination. During pregnancy, your blood volume increases, which causes your kidneys to produce more urine. Running to the bathroom more than usual can be a symptom of pregnancy, especially if other pregnancy symptoms accompany it.
- Fatigue. Have you had trouble staying awake? Are you feeling more tired than usual without a known reason? If your fatigue is happening alongside other pregnancy symptoms, this could be a sign that you’re pregnant.
While these symptoms can indicate early pregnancy, they can also be signs of other medical conditions.
If you’re having symptoms of pregnancy, it’s critical to take a pregnancy test and follow up with an ultrasound to confirm pregnancy and rule out other health conditions.
Free Pregnancy Testing
At the Pregnancy Help Center, we understand the anxiety and questions that can spiral as you worry about whether you’re pregnant. But you’re not alone in this. We’re here for you. We offer free pregnancy testing to give you the clarity you need right now. After taking the test, a nurse will explain your results and help you explore your next steps. If you receive a positive result, you will be offered an ultrasound.
Contact us today to schedule a free, confidential appointment.