Are you a woman who has recently had unprotected sex? If so, you may be pregnant without even knowing it. It’s easy for women to confuse the early warning signs of pregnancy for PMS. However, there are some ways to tell whether or not you are pregnant, even without taking a pregnancy test.
To help you figure out what’s going on with your body, here are some of the most common early pregnancy signs and symptoms to watch out for.
- Cramping: Almost all women get cramps before their periods. However, these generally only last a couple of days before or during a menstrual cycle. If the cramps continue without the appearance of a period, be sure to take a pregnancy test.
- Bloating: Feeling bloated can be a sign of a period or a pregnancy. This generally occurs because of the excess uterine lining that has yet to shed during menstruation. If the feeling doesn’t pass after a few days, it could be a sign of pregnancy.
- Nausea and/or Vomiting: While some women experience sickness before or during a period, it is generally not too common. “Morning sickness,” or nausea after waking during the early stages of a pregnancy, is usually a huge tip-off that you are pregnant.
- Fatigue: Both PMS and pregnancy can be tiring for a woman. If you feel more tired than usual, pay attention to these symptoms. They could be a sign of pregnancy.
- Spotting: It is normal for many women to “spot,” or see a bit of the uterine lining shed, before a period. However, if the spotting occurs without menstruation afterward, then it could be a sign of pregnancy.
- Missing a Period: Finally, the biggest cue that you are pregnant is that your period doesn’t show up. A typical menstrual cycle can last anywhere from 21 to 40 days for most women, so if a period hasn’t arrived after nearly six weeks, this is generally the most reliable sign of pregnancy.
Once you’ve determined that you may be pregnant, there are several things you can do to prepare yourself. Many women and teen pregnancy centers offer a pregnancy test for free if you are unable to purchase one yourself. In addition to taking a pregnancy test for free, many of these centers also offer free pregnancy help and information, so you can make crucial decisions about your future.
Have more questions about taking a pregnancy test for free or for the first time? Leave a comment below.
