This article is part of the Ultimate Guide to Pregnancy.
Whether you’ve been trying to conceive or you’re just starting to think about making a baby, the chances are good that you’re already on the lookout for any early signs of pregnancy.
Many couples trying to have a baby know to keep watch for common, early pregnancy symptoms like missed periods and bouts of morning sickness.
But, because every woman’s body is different, no single symptom is an absolute guaranteed indication of pregnancy. For example, sometimes, a woman might miss her period because of stress or changes in diet and exercise.
Keep reading to learn some of the surprising signs you’re pregnant.
Wondering if you might be pregnant?
The early signs of pregnancy can be different from woman to woman. Here are some symptoms of early pregnancy to look out for:
- Fatigue from higher levels of progesterone
- Mood swings caused by hormone changes
- Spotting from implantation bleeding
- Changes in your breasts (e.g., swelling or soreness)
- Headaches
- Nausea and dizziness
- Need to urinate increases in frequency
- Constipation
- Back pain
Although these may be signs of early pregnancy, they can also be symptoms of other conditions. If any of these symptoms linger or are making you worry, see your OB/GYN doctor.
What to do when you think you might be pregnant
Have you noticed any of early signs of pregnancy and think you might be having a baby? When you’re not sure, take a pregnancy test or see your doctor.
From the privacy of a bathroom, you can use an over-the-counter pregnancy test to find out if you are pregnant. These at-home tests check your urine to detect any signs of human chorionic gonadotropin hormone, or hCG. These pregnancy tests, however, are not always accurate, especially if—for example—you take the test too early.
Tips for couples trying to conceive
If you’re ready to start a family and unsure what can increase your chances of getting pregnant, there are some things you can do (and avoid doing), such as having sex during your cycle when you’re most fertile, taking prenatal vitamins, maintaining a healthy body weight, eating a healthy diet, and limiting strenuous exercise.
Chatting with your OB/GYN doctor for personalized advice is the best step to take if you want to get pregnant sooner.
Find out if it’s time to see a fertility doctor
OB/GYN doctors in north-central Indiana
The only way to know for sure if you’re pregnant or not is to see your provider. If you’re experiencing any early signs of pregnancy, doctor can put your uncertainty at ease with a pregnancy blood test and pelvic exam.
There’s nothing you need to do to prepare for testing in your doctor’s office. Results from blood tests might take a few days to come back, and, for urine tests, your results may be ready right away. If you take steps to find out if you’re pregnant early on, you’ll have more than enough time to get proper care every step of the way (and be able to research and make appropriate arrangements for your baby’s prenatal care, too).
When you choose the OB/GYN team at Logansport Memorial Hospital, you’re in good hands. Our entire highly-skilled, OB/GYN team is made up of caring and experienced physicians, nurses, technicians, and surgeons.
Ready to see an OB/GYN doctor? Schedule an appointment by calling (574) 722-3566 or request an appointment online.
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