Think you might be pregnant? Are you experiencing physical symptoms that are out of the ordinary? While early pregnancy can cause common symptoms in many women, the only way to know for sure if you’re pregnant is by taking a pregnancy test and following up with an ultrasound.
Read on to learn more about the top seven symptoms of pregnancy and what to do next if you think you might be pregnant. Or, if you want to talk to someone in person, contact Avenue Women’s Center to speak with one of our expert staff members.
Top 7 Pregnancy Symptoms
At the moment of conception (when the sperm fertilizes the egg), your pregnancy begins producing hCG (human chorionic gonadotropin). The levels of this hormone start low but rise quickly, and as hCG levels increase, it can cause the following symptoms:
- Missed menstrual period: This is often one of the first symptoms of pregnancy because hCG tells your body to stop menstruating and instead enrich the lining of your uterus to nourish the pregnancy. If you’re still expecting your period, this could mean you’re pregnant.
- Sore, swollen breasts: The same hormone that’s responsible for creating a welcoming environment for your pregnancy also causes your breasts to swell in preparation for breastfeeding. If you notice that your bra is fitting tighter lately, it could indicate pregnancy.
- Nausea and/or vomiting: Wrongly called “morning sickness,” the nausea and/or vomiting that happens in early pregnancy, can occur at any time of the day.
- Increased urination: During pregnancy, your blood volume increases, which causes your kidneys to work harder. This leads to increased urination. If you find yourself running to the restroom more than usual, this could mean you’re pregnant.
- Fatigue: Are you feeling more tired than usual without a reason? If you’re experiencing fatigue alongside other symptoms, this could signify pregnancy.
- Moodiness: Are your emotions all over the place lately? Are you crying one minute and happy the next? If so, this could mean you’re pregnant, thanks to those early pregnancy hormones.
- Food aversions or cravings: If you’re craving foods you don’t normally eat, or if the thought of foods you usually love sounds gross, you could be pregnant.
While these symptoms can indicate early pregnancy, they can also be signs of other conditions. This is why if you’re experiencing one or more of these symptoms, taking a pregnancy test and following up with an ultrasound is essential.
At Avenue Women’s Health, we offer no-cost medical-grade pregnancy tests and limited medical ultrasounds. Contact us today to schedule your no-cost, confidential appointment to get the clarity you need. You’re not alone in this. We’re here for you.
Reviewed by Patricia Kuenzi, APN-CNP, MSN, ANP, PNP.
The information provided here is general in nature. It is not a substitute for a consultation with a medical professional. Before any medical procedure, it is imperative that you discuss your personal medical history, risks, and concerns with your doctor. If you have questions during or after a procedure, your doctor should be immediately contacted. Avenue Women’s Center is not an emergency center. If you are experiencing severe symptoms, such as bleeding and/or pain, seek immediate medical attention. Contact your physician, go to an emergency room, or call 911.