Pregnancy:
Early Signs & Symptoms
If you engage in vaginal sex (penial-vaginal intercourse), there is always a possibility of pregnancy. Anytime sperm meets an egg, pregnancy can occur. This is important to understand, regardless of the precautions you may take. Whether using a barrier method of contraception like condoms or a diaphragm or a hormonal/medical form like the pill, patch, shot, or an IUD, there is always a chance you could become pregnant.
Signs of Pregnancy
The First Two Weeks
Signs of pregnancy before a missed period include fatigue, breast tenderness, and cramping within the first week after conception. You may experience brief abdominal pain or feel more bloated than usual. Some women show no symptoms of pregnancy before they miss their period. Every woman’s pregnancy journey is unique, so your symptoms might not match someone else’s.
A Late or Missed Period
The signs of pregnancy tend to become more pronounced following the absence of a menstrual period. Some women notice bloating, fatigue, or cramping. Other early pregnancy symptoms can include light bleeding, headaches, or tender breasts. If you find yourself developing sudden food aversions and occasional bouts of nausea, a.k.a. morning sickness, this is normal. All these symptoms are common in the first trimester of pregnancy. You might notice changes in your mood as well.
Early Pregnancy Symptoms
- Bloating
- Fatigue
- Cramping
- Bleeding
- Headaches
- Tender Breasts
- Food Aversions
- Nausea (or Morning Sickness)
- Constipation
- Mood Swings
Pregnancy Testing
If you’ve experienced pregnancy symptoms, it’s a good idea to take a pregnancy test. There are many different ways to test whether you could be pregnant. The most common is purchasing a pregnancy test kit at your local drugstore. You can take a store-bought pregnancy test before your missed period, but these tests more accurately predict your pregnancy after your missed period.
Types of Testing
Pregnancy Test Kit
A pregnancy test kit is 99% accurate when used correctly. A pregnancy test detects the level of hCG in your urine. Human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) is a hormone produced by the placenta when you’re pregnant. Make sure you carefully read and follow the instructions on any pregnancy test kit you purchase and confirm the pregnancy test has not expired.
Pregnancy Blood Test
A pregnancy blood test is the most accurate way to determine if you are pregnant. The pregnancy blood test results can detect a lower level of hCG in the blood than a urine test. These can only be taken at an OBGYN’s office or certified women’s health clinic.
False Negative Pregnancy Test
If you take a pregnancy test less than two weeks before your expected period or within two weeks after conception, there’s a possibility that the test could give a false negative result. A false negative result means that the pregnancy test shows as negative even when you are pregnant. This is why it’s essential to visit your OBGYN or local women’s health clinic if you continue to experience pregnancy symptoms.
Commonly Asked Questions
Can you miss a period and not be pregnant?
If your period is delayed, it’s possible that you may be pregnant. However, there are numerous factors that can cause a delay or halt in your menstrual cycle besides pregnancy. Other factors like stress, anovulatory or irregular cycles, intense exercise, starting new hormonal birth control, or experiencing sudden weight changes can be attributed to a late or missed period. Your OBGYN or local women’s health clinic should address other health concerns regarding a late or missed period with you.
Can I Get Pregnant on Birth Control?
No form of birth control is 100% effective. In rare cases, pregnancy can occur even with the use of an IUD, patch, or shot. So, even if you are taking a form of birth control, if you’ve missed a period, it’s important to know the early signs of pregnancy.
Other answers to questions on how you can or cannot get pregnant can be found here.
I’m Pregnant, Now What?
Did you get a positive pregnancy test? If you have, and you’re not sure what to do next, don’t worry. Visiting an OBGYN or local women’s health clinic is a good next step to confirm pregnancy. Our online database of resources can help you find a local, trusted clinic or OBGYN, as well as information on pregnancy and the options available to you.
When wondering if you might be pregnant, it’s important to consider your symptoms, timing, and unique circumstances. While online information can be helpful, the most reliable way to confirm a pregnancy is through a medical-grade test and consultation with a healthcare provider. Every individual’s body and situation are different, so seeking guidance that aligns with your needs—free from external pressures—is key. Remember, this is a deeply personal experience, and prioritizing your well-being, understanding, and support will empower you to make the best decisions for your reproductive health.
