After having sex with your partner, you may be wondering if there’s a possibility that you’re pregnant. Since it may still be too early for there to be any signs, or perhaps you’re uncertain if what you’re experiencing are symptoms of a potential pregnancy, the anticipation may be making you a little nervous. How soon can you find out if you are pregnant or not? While you may not have confirmed your suspicions yet, even if you only think you may be pregnant, it can be a good idea to start gathering information and support.
If you suspect you may be facing an unexpected pregnancy, you can find out for sure today. Schedule an appointment for a free medical-grade pregnancy test at one of six Avenue Women’s Centers located in DuPage County. Our tests are 99.5% accurate just ten days after conception. During your session, we can discuss your results, and answer any questions about your options of abortion, adoption, and parenting.
Contact us today so we can help you navigate the decision-making process!
Why Do I Need to Wait Before Taking a Pregnancy Test?
Test sensitivity varies. Often for accurate results, it’s recommended to wait at least a week after a missed period before taking a pregnancy test. This is because if you’re pregnant, then your body is beginning to develop a hormone known as HcG. It can take up to 12 days after implantation for this hormone to be detectable in a urine-based test. If you attempt to confirm the pregnancy too early, then you may receive a false negative.
How Do I Know When It’s Time to Take a Pregnancy Test?
One of the most common signs of pregnancy is a missed period. If your cycle is something you usually do not pay attention to, then it can be difficult to determine if you’re late or not. Many women have a 28-day menstrual cycle. So, if you didn’t have a period since the previous month, it can be a good indicator to take a test.
Try to remember that a late period is not always a symptom of an unexpected pregnancy. Many factors can influence your menstrual cycle including stress, diet, exercise, or certain medical conditions.
Aside from a missed period, you may also experience hormonal shifts in your body. If pregnant, you will begin to produce more estrogen. This can bring about physical changes. These may include tender or enlarged breasts due to an increased blood flow. You may also notice that your nipples ache slightly and your veins seem a little darker.
Along with a late menstrual cycle and sore breasts, pregnancy can make you feel different. It’s not uncommon for women to experience nausea, food aversions, exhaustion, or frequent urination in the early stages. As your HCG levels begin to even out, these symptoms may increase.
Since you know yourself, it’s a good idea to pay close attention to your body right now. If you’re starting the symptoms you’re having are not normal for you, then perhaps it’s time to confirm your suspicions.
Where Can I Go for Help?
Learning about a potential unexpected pregnancy as soon as possible can ensure you have access to the care you may need. For the most accurate results, you may want to schedule an appointment with a healthcare provider or a pregnancy center. When speaking with a professional, you can receive guidance when it comes to your options. They may also be able to help with planning your next steps.
Once you know for sure if you’re pregnant, it can be important to rule out any health risks. This means it can be helpful to have an ultrasound exam, even if you’re considering abortion. An ultrasound can rule out conditions such as a miscarriage or an ectopic pregnancy. Once you’re certain there are not any health risks, then you can begin to contemplate your decisions.
It’s normal to have fears when it comes to making such a life-changing choice. But you have help, and while the situation may come with a unique set of challenges, you can always reach out for assistance when it comes to getting through your next steps.
Schedule an Appointment
Are you wondering how soon you can find out if you are pregnant? Avenue Women’s Center is here to provide important services and confidential care at no cost. Find out if you are pregnant today with an appointment at one of our six Chicagoland centers. During your appointment, our expert staff will walk you through your options of abortion, adoption, and parenting. Within a safe environment, we’re here to listen and answers any of your valid questions.
Reach out today for assistance during your unexpected pregnancy!
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Reference:
- American Pregnancy Association. (2018, November). Human Chorionic Gonadotropin (HCG): The Pregnancy Hormone. Retrieved from: http://americanpregnancy.org/while-pregnant/hcg-levels/.
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.