If you’ve recently had unprotected (or possibly even protected) sex and your period is late, you may be experiencing one of the earliest signs of pregnancy. All women have different pregnancy symptoms. Some women experience them immediately, while others don’t have any for weeks or months.
If you think you might be pregnant, your next step is to take a test. We offer free, accurate pregnancy tests. Make a confidential appointment to get one today.
What Are Other Possible Pregnancy Symptoms?
In addition to a change in your menstrual cycle, here are a few of the other early pregnancy symptoms you might experience:
- Frequent trips to the bathroom
- Feeling overly tired
- Feeling nauseous (often called morning sickness, although this symptom can happen at any time of the day)
- Sore and tender breasts
Less common signs of early pregnancy can include the following:
- Light spotting
- Craving certain foods or feeling constantly hungry
- An adverse reaction to foods you once liked
- Headaches
- Dizziness
- Mild cramping
- Mood swings
Could I Have Symptoms and Not be Pregnant?
There could be other medical reasons for experiencing these symptoms. For instance, stress, excessive exercise, dieting, or a hormonal imbalance can cause a late period. Feeling the need to urinate frequently can be a sign of a urinary tract infection, and the flu can make you feel nauseous.
When Should I Take a Pregnancy Test?
Doctors recommend waiting until after your missed period before taking a pregnancy test. When you become pregnant, your body produces a specific hormone called human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG). It builds rapidly and eventually enters your blood and urine stream. A pregnancy test detects hCG in your urine.
Can I Get a Positive Test Result and Not Be Pregnant?
Although rare, you can get a false positive result on a pregnancy test. As high as 26% of all pregnancies end in a miscarriage. It is possible to get a positive pregnancy test days or even weeks after a miscarriage.
We recommend retesting a week or two later to determine if you are pregnant after one positive pregnancy test. Be sure to follow the directions carefully.
- Check the expiration date.
- Wait until after your missed period to test.
- Take the test in the morning when your urine is most concentrated.
- Be sure to wait the recommended amount of time for the result.
Whether you’re taking your first pregnancy test or retesting, come to Next Step for a free, confidential pregnancy test.
What If My Test Is Positive?
Our team can discuss your situation and review your options. We’re here to answer your questions and help you determine your next step. Schedule your free, confidential appointment today.