Common Signs of Pregnancy
Your hormones fluctuate dramatically during early pregnancy, which can cause the following symptoms. Not every woman feels every symptom, and some women don’t show any symptoms at all. For this reason, if you think you might be pregnant, it’s essential to take a pregnancy test.
A missed period is often the first sign of pregnancy, especially if your cycle is regular. However, stress or other health factors can also disrupt your menstrual cycle.
Feeling nauseous, with or without vomiting, can begin as early as two weeks after conception. Despite the name, morning sickness can happen at any time of day.
Hormonal changes may cause your breasts to feel sore, sensitive, or fuller than usual.
Increased progesterone levels (a hormone that’s vital during pregnancy) can lead to feeling unusually tired, even early on in pregnancy.
Pregnancy increases blood flow to your kidneys, causing you to need to urinate more often. If you’re running to the bathroom more than usual, this could be a sign of pregnancy.
Hormonal fluctuations can affect your emotions, making you feel more sensitive or irritable.
Changes in appetite, cravings for certain foods, or strong aversions to others are also common.
Knowing the exact date you got pregnant can be tricky. Even if you use pregnancy tracker apps or have a fairly regular period, your fertile window includes several days leading up to and the day of ovulation. Other factors like contraception, illness, and even stress can also affect accurate pregnancy dating.
This is why getting an ultrasound is a critical part of confirming your pregnancy. This simple scan will take measurements that can accurately assess the gestational age of your pregnancy (how far along you are).
Plan B, also known as the “morning-after pill,” is an emergency contraceptive that can prevent pregnancy by delaying ovulation. It is most effective if taken 24-72 hours after unprotected sex.
If you use an emergency contraceptive, it’s possible that your periods may be irregular in the days to weeks after you take the medication. If you are already pregnant, Plan B is not designed to terminate a pregnancy. If you think you are already pregnant, it’s essential to take a pregnancy test and follow up with an ultrasound. This will give you the information you need to determine your next steps.
As of December 2022, the FDA has identified that evidence does not support that Plan B affects implantation. According to ACOG (American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists), “No studies have specifically investigated adverse effects of exposure to emergency contraceptive pills during early pregnancy.” However, studies regarding the teratogenic risk of contraception while taking daily oral contraceptives have found no increased risk for pregnant woman and developing fetus. Opinions in the medical community shift with time and further research is needed regarding risks or effects of emergency contraceptives in early pregnancy (when fertilization has already taken place).
Thinking you might be unexpectedly pregnant can feel overwhelming.
We’re here to offer the clarity and support you need right now. You don’t have to face this alone. Contact us today to schedule your free, confidential appointment. Whether you’re looking for free pregnancy testing, ultrasounds, or a safe space to talk, we’re here for you.
Amazing clinic that empowers women during unexpected pregnancies. The staff is incredibly friendly. They offer free ultrasounds, pregnancy and STI tests.
What a lovely team of kind professionals at Clearway Clinic! My visit was so smooth. I highly recommend this place!
I went to the clinic for a scan and some tests. The staff was so professional and welcoming. I was guided and supported through the entire process. I would highly recommend the clinic for their expertise, professionalism, and high standard of care.
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