If you suspect you might be pregnant, taking a test at a medical center will tell you for sure. However, before taking the time and energy to visit a doctor, it’s worth learning the common signs of pregnancy. Here’s what you should know. 

How to Tell if You Should Get a Pregnancy Test

1. Missed Period 

A missed period or finding just a spot or two of blood when it usually arrives commonly points to pregnancy. This occurs because sperm has fertilized one of your eggs, which has implanted itself in your uterus, so your body doesn’t need to expel it. Other possible explanations include excessive stress or exercise, abrupt weight changes, or a medical condition; get a pregnancy test if the missed period is accompanied by other symptoms. 

2. Nausea

Nausea can occur with or without vomiting. It may be a result of your body responding to the pregnancy by producing the human chorionic gonadotropin hormone, also known as HCG, or increasing your estrogen levels. No one knows for certain what causes it, but if it’s consistent, you should be tested for pregnancy. 

3. Fatigue 

When pregnant, your body creates more hormones and transfers some of your nutrients to the fetus. This causes your body to lose energy, so you become fatigued, which is characterized by persistent sleepiness, headaches, irritability, and muscle weakness or soreness. If you’re otherwise healthy and not under unusual stress, go to a medical center for a pregnancy test. 

4. Frequent Urination 

Around the fourth week of pregnancy, your uterus starts expanding, placing pressure on your bladder. The HCG hormone also begins transferring more blood to your pelvic area to help with the baby’s growth. These issues will make you run to the bathroom more often than normal. 

5. Pain in Breasts & Abdomen 

To prepare for breastfeeding, your breasts will grow larger, becoming sensitive and tender. You may also feel some mild cramping in your abdomen as your womb stretches in anticipation of carrying a baby; although, it could also be due to your tissues elongating. These discomforts can be alleviated with warm baths and hydrating.

 
Pregnancy is best navigated with the help of a compassionate and attentive medical center. HDR Healthcare Network in the Bronx, NY, is staffed by family doctors who are committed to providing affordable, high-quality care to every patient. They’ll perform a definitive pregnancy test and guide you through each stage of the pregnancy with grace and dignity. Make an appointment today by calling (718) 617-2500 or messaging them online.