If you’re wondering whether you might be pregnant, you might be feeling anxious and uncertain right now. You should know that we’re here for you, and you are not alone in this journey. Whatever you’re going through, we can face it together.
The idea of being pregnant can be overwhelming. It’s completely natural to feel a mix of emotions. Please remember that it’s essential to take things one step at a time and not let fear consume you. Thrive+ is here to give support and guidance every step of the way.
Let’s go over the signs of pregnancy. They can vary from person to person, so it can be helpful to schedule a no-cost Telehealth appointment to speak with a nurse. Talking to a medical professional can help you understand your symptoms and go over your options.
Common Signs of Pregnancy
- A missed period, or amenorrhea, is a common sign of pregnancy. It happens when your monthly period doesn’t come on time like it usually does. This is when many women wonder, “How do I know if I’m pregnant?”
During a normal period, the body gets ready for a possible pregnancy. But if there’s no fertilized egg, the uterus lining sheds away, and that’s when the period happens. But when an egg does get fertilized, it attaches to the uterus. The body starts making a hormone called hCG, which helps support the pregnancy. This hormone stops the uterus lining from shedding, causing the missed period.
A missed period doesn’t always mean pregnancy. Stress, hormonal changes, sickness, or changes in weight can also mess up periods. The best way to find out if you are pregnant is by taking a pregnancy test.
Have you missed your period? You’re welcome to make a no-cost Telehealth appointment and/or come in for a no-cost medical grade pregnancy test and ultrasound.
- Nausea is a common pregnancy symptom that can make you feel queasy or like you might throw up. It’s often called “morning sickness,” but it can happen at any time of the day. When women experience nausea and a missed period, many wonder, “How do I know if I’m pregnant?” Nausea usually starts around the sixth week of pregnancy. It can last until the end of the first trimester or beyond.
The exact cause of nausea during pregnancy isn’t entirely understood, but doctors believe it’s related to hormonal changes in the body. The pregnancy hormones can irritate the stomach lining and make you feel sick.
To help manage nausea, it’s good to eat small, frequent meals and avoid spicy or greasy foods. Drinking plenty of fluids and getting enough rest can also make a difference. A doctor can suggest safe remedies or medications when nausea is severe.
Though it can be tough, remember that nausea during pregnancy is temporary. It usually gets better as the pregnancy progresses. Nausea alone is not always an indicator of pregnancy, so it’s helpful to talk to a doctor about your symptoms.
- Fatigue, or feeling extremely tired and lacking energy, is a common pregnancy symptom. Your body goes through significant changes to support the growing fetus. If you’re wondering, “how do I know if I’m pregnant?” ; abnormal exhaustion or just feeling “extra worn out” without a clear cause might be a sign.
The main reason behind pregnancy fatigue is the increased levels of hormones, like progesterone. These hormones can make you feel sleepy and affect your usual energy levels. The body works hard to build the placenta, the organ that feeds nutrients and oxygen to the fetus. All this extra work can lead to feelings of exhaustion.
To cope with fatigue, it’s helpful to get plenty of rest and listen to your body when it needs a break. Eating a well-balanced diet and staying hydrated can also help combat tiredness. Light exercise, like walking, can boost energy levels, but it’s important not to overdo it.
Fatigue is a natural part of pregnancy. But if it becomes overwhelming, talking to a nurse can provide helpful advice and support. Remember to take care of yourself during this time.
- Frequent urination is a common pregnancy symptom where you need to pee more often than usual. If you ask someone with a baby, “How do I know if I’m pregnant?” she might laugh and tell you, “You will pee a lot!”
During pregnancy, the body produces extra blood. The kidneys work harder to filter waste, leading to increased urine production. Additionally, the growing uterus puts pressure on the bladder, making it feel full even when there’s just a small amount of urine. As the fetus grows, the pressure on the bladder increases. This causes even more frequent trips to the bathroom. Though it can be bothersome, staying hydrated is still essential. If there’s any pain or discomfort while urinating, it’s best to talk to a doctor.
- Breast tenderness is a pregnancy symptom where your breasts feel sensitive, sore, or swollen. The body is preparing for potential breastfeeding. Pregnant women’s breasts go through changes, including increased blood flow and hormone fluctuations. These changes can make the breasts feel tender and uncomfortable.
Breast tenderness usually occurs during the early stages of pregnancy. It might continue throughout the first trimester. Wearing a supportive bra and avoiding rough handling can help. If the tenderness becomes severe or concerning symptoms appear, talk to a healthcare provider for guidance.
- Mood swings affect pregnant women, and they can make your emotions go up and down like a rollercoaster. When you ask your doctor, “How do I know if I’m pregnant?” they might mention mood swings. Pregnancy hormones, like estrogen and progesterone, can fluctuate and impact the brain’s chemistry. This causes sudden mood changes. One moment, you might feel happy and excited, and the next, you could feel sad or irritable.
Stress and worrying about pregnancy can also contribute to mood swings. You should know that mood swings are normal during pregnancy, and it’s okay to give yourself grace. Engage in relaxation techniques, talk to loved ones, and seek support to help manage these emotional ups and downs.
Have Any of These Symptoms?
We’ve covered that the common signs include missed periods, nausea, fatigue, frequent urination, breast tenderness, and mood swings. Remember that these signs can accompany other conditions. It’s essential to not jump to conclusions until we have more information.
If you think you might be pregnant, your first step is to take a pregnancy test. You can find these tests at most drugstores, and they are simple to use. If you’re uncertain about how to take the test or need someone to support you, Thrive+ is here for you. ThriVe+ can connect you to no cost, lab-quality pregnancy tests, STD testing and ultrasounds provided by licensed medical professionals.
No matter the result of the test, remember that you have options. Consider each possibility with care and guidance from people you trust. If you are pregnant and unsure about what to do next, there are several paths you can explore, including:
- Talking to a healthcare professional: It’s helpful to get accurate information about your pregnancy options, prenatal care, and the resources available to you. Kind and judgment-free nurses at Thrive+ can provide valuable guidance and support.
- Confiding in someone you trust: Sharing your feelings and concerns with someone close to you can be a tremendous source of comfort. Whether it’s a family member, friend, or a counselor, having someone to talk to can help you process your emotions.
- Exploring all options: Pregnancy can lead to different paths, including parenting, adoption, or abortion. Take your time to explore each option, and remember that the decision is ultimately yours to make. We’re here to help you, whatever path you’re considering.
Remember that there’s no right or wrong way to feel about your situation, and it’s important to be gentle with yourself. Whatever choice you make, Thrive+ is here to empower you. You deserve the best care and all the information you need to make the best informed decision.
Please reach out if you’re wondering, “How do I know if I’m pregnant?” Our friendly team can help you navigate this journey with honesty and kindness.
