Pregnancy

Could I Be Pregnant?

Any time you have sex, there is always a chance for pregnancy. At different times of the month the chance can increase or decrease, but because sperm can live in a woman’s body for a couple of days, it’s impossible to know what your chances are at any given time.

Many women assume that if they use contraception, they cannot become pregnant. Contraception, however, is not 100 percent effective and the chance for pregnancy is never eliminated if you’ve had sex.[1]

One of the most common signs of pregnancy is a missed period. Pregnancy is not the only reason a woman might miss her period, but if she has had sex, the possibility of pregnancy should not be ruled out.

Possible Signs and Symptoms [2]

The signs and symptoms of pregnancy vary from woman to woman and even from pregnancy to pregnancy. Some women have no noticeable signs at all. The timing of the onset of signs and symptoms also varies. Early indications may include but are not limited to:

• Missed period
• Tender and swollen breasts
• Nausea, with or without vomiting
• Increased urination
• Fatigue (tiredness).[2]

Other symptoms may include, but are not limited to:

• Light spotting
• Cramping
• Moodiness
• Bloating
• Constipation.[2]

Pregnancy Tests

A good indication of pregnancy is a pregnancy test; pregnancy tests, however, are only an indication of pregnancy. Only a medical professional can diagnose a pregnancy. If you have had a positive pregnancy test, consider taking another or scheduling an ultrasound for verification. If you call our center, we can set an appointment to verify your pregnancy test results. Some women have had positive pregnancy tests without actually being pregnant, but this is rare and pregnancy should still be considered as a possible reason.

If you’ve had sex, there is always a possibility of pregnancy. Our center can provide a free and confidential pregnancy test or retest. We can also provide or refer for an ultrasound to verify your pregnancy. Call today. We are here to help you sort through your questions confidentially.

[1]Contraception Options and Effectiveness. U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Website: https://www.hhs.gov/opa/performance-measures/contraceptive-options-and-effectiveness-text-only/index.html. Published May 2, 2018. Retrieved June 5, 2020.

[2]“Symptoms of Pregnancy: What Happens First” Mayo Clinic, last modified May 11, 2019, https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/getting-pregnant/in-depth/symptoms-of-pregnancy/art-20043853.