Am I Pregnant? How Do I Find Out for Sure?

A missed period can be one of the first signs of pregnancy, but symptoms alone cannot confirm a pregnancy. Every pregnancy is different, and some women may have very few symptoms in the early weeks. 

Early Signs of Pregnancy
Common early signs can include:

A missed or lighter period
Nausea or vomiting
Tiredness
Tender or fuller breasts
Frequent urination
Increased vaginal discharge
Changes in taste or smell
Food cravings or aversions
These symptoms can also occur for reasons unrelated to pregnancy. 

How Can You Confirm Pregnancy?
A home urine pregnancy test is usually the simplest way to check. It detects the pregnancy hormone hCG in your urine.

A test is generally most reliable from the first day of your missed period. If you test negative but still think you may be pregnant, repeat the test after about a week.

Your doctor may recommend a blood test or ultrasound depending on your situation.

What to Do After a Positive Test
Once your pregnancy is confirmed, arrange your prenatal care and speak with your healthcare provider about:

Folic acid and other recommended supplements
Any medicines or supplements you currently take
Your medical history
Nutrition and lifestyle
Appropriate physical activity
Starting prenatal care early helps your healthcare team monitor your health and your baby's development. 

When Should You Seek Medical Advice?
Contact your healthcare provider if you have vaginal bleeding, significant abdominal pain, severe vomiting, dizziness or any symptom that concerns you. If you think you may be pregnant, a pregnancy test is the best way to find out. 

This article is for general information and does not replace individual medical advice.