Wondering if you’re pregnant but not sure when or how to take a pregnancy test? Bella Women’s Center is here to help answer some common questions related to finding out whether you’re pregnant and what to do next!
How long after sex should I wait to take a pregnancy test?
Before you jump to take a pregnancy test, it’s best to wait at least one week after your missed period for the most accurate results.
Because pregnancy tests identify pregnancy by detecting hCG (Human Chorionic Gonadotropin) in the bloodstream, your body needs time to produce a detectable amount of the hormone.
Whether you’re hoping to be pregnant or not, waiting to take a pregnancy test until the timing is right can feel agonizing, and while some brands will advertise “early detection,” it’s still best to wait the recommended time. You should also plan to take the test when you first wake up in the morning and before you drink anything, to avoid diluted urine.
The accuracy of an at-home pregnancy test requires that there be no user error. If you’re looking for easy and accurate test results, schedule a no-cost appointment at Bella Women’s Center!
What do I do after I take a test?
While a pregnancy test is the first step in identifying whether or not you’re pregnant, that’s just the beginning! Once you take a positive pregnancy test, it’s essential that you then schedule an appointment for an ultrasound scan. This step is critical in truly confirming your pregnancy since 25 percent of early pregnancies end in natural miscarriage.
An ultrasound scan will provide you with important information regarding your pregnancy, such as its location, age, and viability. With the help of an ultrasound, our doctor will be able to identify whether your pregnancy is healthy and discover any immediate health concerns.
If you’re considering abortion, accurately dating through ultrasounds is an important step in learning more about the options available to you and what the cost of the procedure might be.
What are common pregnancy symptoms?
If you’re sexually active, there’s a chance you could become pregnant, even if you’re on birth control. In addition to a missed period, these are a few common pregnancy symptoms to be on the lookout for:
Common Pregnancy Symptoms:
- Changes in the appearance or tenderness of breasts and nipples
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Headaches
- Exhaustion
- New food cravings or aversions
- Sensitivity to smells
- Mood swings
For many, positive pregnancy tests bring excitement and joy, but for some, they’re accompanied by feelings of fear and anxiety.
If you’re experiencing an unplanned pregnancy and worried about what’s next, there’s help! Bella Women’s Center provides free healthcare, such as pregnancy tests, ultrasounds, and STD testing, as well as options counseling and resources as you discover which path is best for you.
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