Early pregnancy often causes common symptoms in many women. However, not every woman will experience every pregnancy symptom—and some women might not experience any early pregnancy symptoms.
If you recently had unprotected sex or your birth control failed, the following list of early pregnancy symptoms can help you determine if you might be pregnant. But it’s important to note that the only way to know whether you are pregnant is to take a pregnancy test, and if the result is positive, follow up with an ultrasound.
1. Missed Menstrual Period
Are you still expecting your period this month? If so, you might be pregnant. A missed menstrual period is often the first sign of pregnancy. This is because early pregnancy hormones tell your body to stop menstruating and instead enrich the lining of your uterus to nourish and sustain a pregnancy. If you’ve missed a period, it’s time to take a pregnancy test.
2. Tender, Swollen Breasts
Is your bra fitting tighter lately? Are your breasts more sensitive than usual? If so, you might be pregnant. Those same pregnancy hormones that tell your body to stop menstruating are preparing your breasts for breastfeeding.
3. Fatigue
Are you feeling more tired than usual? Are you finding it hard to get out of bed or needing more naps than normal? If you’re feeling fatigued along with other pregnancy symptoms, there’s a chance you’re likely pregnant.
4. Increased Urination
Running to the bathroom a lot lately? Pregnancy could be to blame. During pregnancy, your blood volume increases, which causes your kidneys to work harder and produce more urine.
5. Nausea With/Without Vomiting
Often referred to as “morning sickness,” the nausea and/or vomiting that can accompany early pregnancy can strike any time of the day. If you’ve been feeling sick to your stomach with no known cause (like food poisoning or illness), you might be pregnant.
6. Moodiness
Have you been laughing one minute and crying the next? Feeling moody and irritable is another sign of pregnancy, especially if other early pregnancy symptoms accompany the moodiness.
7. Food Aversions or Cravings
Are you having cravings for foods you normally don’t eat? Are your usual favorite foods turning up your nose? Food aversions and/or cravings can be a sign of pregnancy.
If you’re having one or more of these symptoms, there’s a chance you might be pregnant. But it’s essential to note that rarely, these symptoms can be indicative of other health conditions. The only way to find out if you’re pregnant or experiencing a health condition is to take a pregnancy test.
At Empower Life Center, we offer free, lab-quality pregnancy testing administered by a nurse. If your test is positive, we also provide free limited ultrasounds to confirm your results and give you the information you need to stay safe.
Contact us today to schedule your free, confidential appointment. You’re not alone in this. We’re here for you.
