Unfortunately, no birth control is 100% effective. If your birth control failed, you are probably wondering if you’re pregnant.
The first sign of pregnancy is usually a missed period, but your monthly cycle can change for other reasons. If the timing is right, come to Anderson House for a free lab-quality pregnancy test.
When Can I Take a Pregnancy Test?
When a woman gets pregnant, her body produces a hormone called human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG). This hormone rapidly increases after a fertilized egg implants in a woman’s uterus. Eventually, the hCG hormone enters her urine or bloodstream.
Our free pregnancy tests use urine to detect the presence of hCG. You are most likely pregnant if it’s detected, but waiting for the right time is essential.
Experts recommend waiting a day or two after your missed period before testing. Otherwise, you could get a false-negative result, meaning the test indicates you aren’t pregnant when you actually are.
Other Early Pregnancy Symptoms
Every woman experiences pregnancy differently. Some women feel every symptom immediately, while others don’t have symptoms for months. It is possible to be pregnant and not have early symptoms, but most women experience one or more of the following:
- A missed period
- Tender, swollen breasts
- Nausea with or without vomiting
- Increased urination
- Fatigue
After a Positive Test, You Should Still Confirm Your Pregnancy
A late period and a positive pregnancy test may not be enough information to confirm you are pregnant. We recommend getting a limited obstetrical ultrasound.
Why Is It Necessary to Have an Ultrasound?
A recent study estimates that 26% of all pregnancies end in miscarriage, and 80% of those happen within the first 12 weeks.
Because it takes a woman’s body time to return to pre-pregnancy hormone levels, you could get a false-positive pregnancy test days or even weeks after a miscarriage.
An ultrasound can also detect how far along you are in your pregnancy. Determining the gestational age helps define your options.
Plus, an ultrasound protects your health and safety. A pregnancy not located in your uterus is called ectopic. An ectopic pregnancy is dangerous, even life-threatening.
After I Confirm My Pregnancy, Then What?
We understand how an unplanned pregnancy can be stressful, but you have options. Make a free, confidential appointment to discuss your situation and the best choice for your pregnancy.
You can visit us at either our Uvalde location or in Carrizo Springs. However, ultrasound is only available in Uvalde.
You matter to us. Let us help you during this overwhelming season. We never want you to feel alone.
