4 Signs You Could Be Pregnant

Once one becomes sexually active with a person of the opposite sex, there is always a chance that a woman could become pregnant even if proper pregnancy prevention precautions are taken. Some signs and symptoms to look for that can indicate you may be pregnant include the following:

1. Missed Periods

Missed periods are often the first sign a woman notices that indicate she may be pregnant. A woman may miss her period, or several periods in a row, for a variety of reasons, such as excessive exercise, diet changes, and stress, but it can also be a sign that she is pregnant. Many women seek an abortion Illinois at this stage if they take a test to confirm that they are pregnant and aren’t ready to have a child. 

2. Nausea

Morning sickness is another common and well-known early symptom of pregnancy. Many women experience nausea accompanied by vomiting, but some never actually vomit. Morning sickness often occurs after the first month of pregnancy, though it can happen earlier or later depending upon the individual. 

Many women find it helpful to avoid strong smells like scented perfumes or lotions and spicy or sweet foods. Drinking ginger tea can also be beneficial for some experiencing nausea. Some research supports the notion that those pregnant with a girl are more likely to be struck with morning sickness. 

3. Food Aversions

Related to nausea and morning sickness, some women experience strong and sudden food aversions once they realize they are pregnant. This is especially true of foods with strong odors, like hard-boiled eggs, fish, or spicy foods. 

If you notice food aversions that never bothered you in the past, this could be a sign that you are pregnant, and you should follow up with a pregnancy test if you think you might be pregnant. 

4. Increased Fatigue

Many women notice a significant drop in their energy levels before and after they find out they are pregnant. This is likely due to the elevated progesterone levels pregnant women produce.

It can be tempting to reach for large volumes of caffeine if you feel more tired than usual, but this can be dangerous for you and the fetus if you are, in fact, pregnant. Instead of making another pot of coffee, try taking short power naps throughout the day and avoid driving long distances or operating heavy machinery if you feel very fatigued. 

If you have become increasingly tired in recent weeks, it might be time to speak with your doctor and/or take a pregnancy test to determine whether or not you are pregnant. 

For some women, experiencing these symptoms can be exciting and hopeful if they have been wanting to get pregnant for any stretch of time. For others, these symptoms can be utterly distressing and traumatic. 

Either way, it’s best to take an at-home pregnancy test if you suspect you may be pregnant followed by one from the doctor if it comes back positive. In the meantime, avoid using drugs or alcohol, and practice basic self-care to take care of your mental health.