If you think you’re pregnant, you may feel like your life has just been turned upside down. How will you share the news with friends and family? Will your partner be involved? What pregnancy decision will you make?
As easy as it can feel to start asking yourself questions, you need answers first. Ensure you’re actually pregnant by taking a medical-grade pregnancy test administered by one of our licensed medical staff members, and if it’s positive, following up with an ultrasound.
Symptoms of Pregnancy
Pregnancy symptoms vary for every woman. Perhaps you’ve already experienced the usual signs, like nausea and a missed period. Or maybe you have irregular cycles or haven’t had symptoms and are unsure.
If you do have symptoms, here are some you may encounter:
- A missed period
- Nausea (with or without vomiting)
- Frequent urination
- Fatigue
- Tender, swollen breasts
- Constipation
- Cramping
- Nasal congestion
- Bloating
- Moodiness
- Food aversions
If you’ve had any of these symptoms or have had sexual intercourse in the last few weeks, it may be time to take a pregnancy test. Keep in mind that testing is essential, as some symptoms can be attributed to other medical conditions, weight changes, and more.
Taking a Test
Most women first learn whether they’re pregnant through an over-the-counter test. Though these tests are accurate, you must follow the directions and take them at an appropriate time. Wait a few weeks after sexual intercourse or several days after a missed period to test for pregnancy.
All pregnancy tests work by detecting the presence of hCG (human chorionic gonadotropin) in the blood or urine. This pregnancy hormone rises rapidly in the body during those first few weeks of pregnancy.
Sometimes, you can receive a false negative if you test too early. This is because the level of hCG in your body may still be too low to detect. If you suspect this is the case, wait a few days and test again.
Confirming Your pregnancy
Women’s Hope Medical Clinic provides free and confidential pregnancy tests and ultrasounds. Our tests will give you a reliable initial result, and an ultrasound confirms essential details you need to confirm your pregnancy and protect your health.
Our trained and licensed medical staff can provide options consultations so you can learn key information. This journey can be difficult, so we’re with you every step of the way.
Contact us today to schedule your appointment. We’re here for you.