Think you might be pregnant? Whether you’ve been having strange physical symptoms or received a positive result on a pregnancy test, you’re likely feeling overwhelmed with different emotions. Fear, anxiety, worry, and even excitement are all normal reactions to an unexpected pregnancy. But no matter how you’re feeling, you’re not alone in this. At FirstLook, we’re here for you.
Read on to learn more about early pregnancy symptoms and what to do if you receive a positive result on an at-home pregnancy test.
Top Early Pregnancy Symptoms
While taking a pregnancy test is the only surefire way to know if you’re pregnant, early pregnancy often causes symptoms that are common to many women. However, some women may only experience a handful of early pregnancy symptoms or none at all.
If you think you might be pregnant, here are the top symptoms to watch out for:
- Missed monthly period. This is often the most reliable symptom that you might be pregnant. This is because, at the moment of conception (when the sperm meets the egg), a special group of hormones tells your body to stop menstruating so that your uterine lining will remain thick and rich to welcome and nourish the embryo.
- Tender, swollen breasts. If your bra is fitting tighter lately, or you find that your breasts are more tender, this could indicate pregnancy. The same hormones that cause you to stop menstruating can also cause your breasts to enlarge and feel more sensitive.
- Nausea and/or vomiting. Pregnancy could be to blame if you’ve been feeling nauseous or vomiting without a known cause. While this pregnancy symptom is often called “morning sickness,” this isn’t accurate. In early pregnancy, you might feel nauseous or experience vomiting anytime throughout the day.
- Increased urination. During pregnancy, your body’s blood volume increases. This causes your kidneys to work harder, which in turn causes increased urination. You might be pregnant if you’ve been running to the bathroom more frequently.
- Fatigue. Been feeling more tired than usual? Unable to complete normal activities without needing a nap? If you’re fatigued and experiencing other pregnancy symptoms, this could be a strong indicator of pregnancy.
While these symptoms are common in early pregnancy, they can also be symptoms of other conditions. This is why it’s essential to take a pregnancy test if you think you might be pregnant.
What If I Receive a Positive Result on a Pregnancy Test?
If you receive a positive result on an at-home pregnancy test, the next steps include taking a lab-quality pregnancy test, following up with an ultrasound, and receiving STI testing (as untreated STIs can cause pregnancy complications). At FirstLook, we offer both these services for free, and our caring team is here to answer any questions and provide information afterward.
Contact us today to schedule a free, confidential appointment. You’re not alone in this. We’re here for you!