Wondering whether you’re pregnant can be a time of great uncertainty, especially when pregnancy is unintended. And common pregnancy symptoms can actually indicate hormonal changes, stress, other health conditions, and more.

You need the facts before making a decision or thinking about your future plans. Learning whether you’re pregnant is your first step to moving forward.

Top Signs that you may be pregnant

Not every woman who’s pregnant will have symptoms, and some symptoms, including a missed period, can be related to other factors.

If you have had sexual intercourse, here are symptoms to look out for:

• Missed period
• Fatigue
• Nausea (with or without vomiting)
• Tender, swollen breasts
• Frequent urination
• Moodiness
• Constipation
• Nasal congestion
• Cramping
• Food aversions

The only way to confirm a potential pregnancy is to take a pregnancy test. At-home and clinical pregnancy tests measure hCG (human chorionic gonadotropin). HCG is a hormone that’s only produced during pregnancy.

It’s best to take an at-home pregnancy test first thing in the morning, when your urine is most concentrated, as your chances of receiving an accurate result increase. Taking the test several days after a missed period or a few weeks after sexual intercourse is best; at this time, the hCG will have risen to detectable levels.

You’ll need to follow the test’s instructions carefully. Taking the test too early or incorrectly can result in a false result.

I Have a Positive Result. Now What?

It’s understandable that your first reaction may be to panic if you receive a positive result. Your mind might be reeling, but it’s imperative to remember that confirming a potential pregnancy is key.

Care Net Pregnancy Center of Wayne County provides free, self-administered pregnancy tests at our center. These tests are lab-quality, and if you receive a positive result, we can refer you for a limited ultrasound to confirm your pregnancy.

We’ll help you get answers. Contact us today.