Think you might be pregnant?

Wondering if you might be pregnant? While the only way to confirm a pregnancy is through a test and ultrasound, there are several early symptoms that can indicate you might be pregnant.

Understanding these signs can help you decide when to take a pregnancy test.

Top Signs of Early Pregnancy

1. Missed Period: A missed menstrual period is often the most obvious sign of pregnancy, especially if your cycle is regular. If your period is late, it’s a good idea to take a pregnancy test.

2. Nausea and/or vomiting: Nausea, commonly referred to as morning sickness, is one of the earliest and most well-known signs of pregnancy. It can occur at any time of the day, not just in the morning, and usually starts around the sixth week of pregnancy. Hormonal changes are believed to trigger this symptom, and sometimes, it can last throughout the entire pregnancy.

3. Breast Changes: Early pregnancy often causes your breasts to become tender, swollen, or more sensitive. The areolas (the area around your nipples) might also darken and enlarge as your body prepares for breastfeeding.

4. Fatigue: Feeling unusually tired is another common early pregnancy symptom. The increase in the hormone progesterone can make you feel more fatigued than usual, even in the early stages of pregnancy. If you’re feeling more tired than usual, you might be pregnant, especially if other pregnancy symptoms accompany your tiredness.

5. Frequent Urination: Hormonal changes and increased blood flow to your kidneys can cause you to urinate more frequently than usual. Running to the bathroom more than usual? You could be pregnant.

6. Mood Swings: Hormonal fluctuations can affect your emotions, leading to mood swings. If you find yourself feeling more emotional, anxious, or irritable than usual, this could be a sign of pregnancy.

7. Food Aversions and Cravings: Pregnancy can alter your sense of taste and smell, leading to strong food aversions or cravings. Are you craving foods you once hated? Do familiar foods no longer sound appetizing? Pregnancy might be to blame.

Next Steps

Taking a pregnancy test is a good idea if you’re experiencing one or more of these symptoms. This is because other health conditions can mimic the symptoms of early pregnancy.

For the most accurate results, take the test after a missed period. If the test is positive, follow up with an ultrasound.

At Alemod Mututubanya Foundation, we offer free pregnancy testing and limited ultrasounds. We believe you deserve to have what you need to stay safe and make educated decisions.

Contact us today. We’re here for you.