For this reason, it may be difficult to know when or whether to take a pregnancy test. There are many reasons for missed periods, but if a woman is sexually active, a missed period can signal pregnancy. Most pregnancy tests are very accurate when taken after a missed period, but sometimes the hormone levels might not be high enough to trigger a positive result. If a woman misses a period and a pregnancy test is negative, she should repeat the test after a few days. Sore and swollen breasts are very common in early pregnancy, but they often occur just before a period, as well.
Some women experience implantation bleeding, which is light bleeding that happens when the embryo attaches to the uterine wall. Cramps are common just before or during a menstrual period, but some women also get cramps when implantation occurs. If cramps occur around or before a period is due, but there is no bleeding or the bleeding is much lighter than usual, it may be a good idea to take a pregnancy test. Morning sickness , or nausea and vomiting associated with pregnancy, tends to start between the 2nd and 8th week of pregnancy.
Nausea does not just happen in the morning — many women feel nauseated all day or into the evening. If a woman feels nauseous for no apparent reason, especially when there are other signs of pregnancy, it may be a good idea to take a pregnancy test.
Fatigue is a common symptom of early pregnancy. There may be no other likely causes, such as stress or a lack of sleep. It may be difficult for a pregnant woman to make it through the day without a nap or the opportunity to rest. Fatigue during early pregnancy is usually due to changes in the hormone progesterone. The fatigue usually eases, and pregnant women may find they have more energy starting in the second trimester.
Unusual cravings and food aversions are common in the first trimester, though they sometimes persist through the entire pregnancy. Some women crave non-food items, such as dirt or ice. If you are pregnant, your body needs time to develop detectable levels of HCG. This typically takes seven to 12 days after successful implantation of an egg. Here are some signs that you should take a pregnancy test. Many women have a day menstrual cycle. Keep in mind that your period can sometimes be delayed or skipped due to stress , diet , exercise , or certain medical conditions.
Also pay attention to your flow if you suspect pregnancy. Take note of any difference in the color, texture, or amount of blood. Implantation can also produce a feeling similar to menstrual cramps.
In early pregnancy, you may feel this discomfort and think your period is just around the corner, but then it never comes. Your breasts may feel tender and appear bigger due to increased blood flow. Your nipples might hurt and the veins might look darker under the skin. As the weeks go on, these symptoms may get stronger before your HCG levels even out late in the first trimester.
You know yourself, so pay attention to your body. Any unusual physical symptoms could prompt you to take a pregnancy test. Human error or defects can also result in unplanned pregnancy. Birth control pills can be difficult to remember to take each day. Condoms can break and tear or otherwise be used incorrectly.
According to Planned Parenthood, nearly 18 in every women relying on condoms for contraception get pregnant each year. According to Planned Parenthood, less than one out of every women using an IUD gets pregnant each year.
Sexually active women in their reproductive years have a chance of pregnancy every month, even when using protection. There are certain signals your body might send that should prompt you to take a pregnancy test. Test during your first morning bathroom visit, or hold it for several hours to increase the concentration of the HCG hormone that the test measures.
Testing early helps to ensure that you get proper care for yourself and, if applicable, prenatal care for your baby. Forbes Health adheres to strict editorial integrity standards. To the best of our knowledge, all content is accurate as of the date posted, though offers contained herein may no longer be available. Ashley Lauretta is a journalist based in Austin, Texas.
Select Region. United States. United Kingdom. Health family. Advertiser Disclosure. By Ashley Lauretta. Medically Reviewed Dr. Commissions we earn from partner links on this page do not affect our opinions or evaluations. Our editorial content is based on thorough research and guidance from the Forbes Health Advisory Board. At-home Pregnancy Tests Find the most popular at-home pregnancy tests on Amazon. Compare Tests.
Curious About Your Fertility? Footnotes Gnoth C, Johnson S. Geburtshilfe Frauenheilkd. More from. By James Grifo M.
0コメント