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Clear signs of pregnancy


When To Take, Types & Accuracy

Overview

How Does a Pregnancy Test Work?

What is a pregnancy test?

A pregnancy test is a way to determine if you’re pregnant. If your pregnancy test is positive, it means you’re pregnant. If the test is negative, it means you aren’t pregnant. Pregnancy tests work by detecting human chorionic gonadotropin (HCG), a hormone your body makes when you’re pregnant.

From the very beginning of pregnancy, your body starts to go through changes to support the cells that will develop into your baby. One thing that happens very quickly is the production of HCG. If you’re pregnant, your body starts to produce more HCG. Your HCG levels start to build up once the fertilized egg implants in your uterus — about six to 10 days after conception.

There are two main types of pregnancy tests — urine tests and blood tests. Often, you’ll take a urine test at home with a home pregnancy test. This type of test is available over the counter (you don’t need a prescription from your healthcare provider) and in a variety of price ranges. Blood tests to check for pregnancy happen in your healthcare provider’s office and involve giving a sample of your blood. The other way to confirm a pregnancy is by using an ultrasound. Your provider performs an ultrasound in their office.

There are several reasons why you might take a pregnancy test. You could be trying to get pregnant and hoping for a positive result. You might have experienced an issue with your birth control. You might even be about to have a medical procedure or start a new medication that could be complicated by pregnancy. No matter what the reason, if you ever have any questions about your test results, the best thing to do is reach out to your healthcare provider.

What hormone levels are checked for a pregnancy test?

Pregnancy tests look for an elevated amount of HCG. Levels of HCG rise quickly – doubling every few days in the first weeks of pregnancy. The placenta produces HCG. Only pregnant people have a placenta, which develops shortly after a fertilized egg attaches to your uterine wall.

When should I take a pregnancy test?

If you think you could be pregnant, it’s a good idea to take a test and make sure. Home pregnancy tests can differ in how early they’ll detect a pregnancy. In many cases, you might get a positive result from an at-home test as early as 10 days after conception. For a more accurate result, wait until after you’ve missed your period to take a test. Remember, if you take a test too soon, it could be negative even if you’re pregnant. If you get a negative test and then miss your period, take another test.

What time should I take a pregnancy test?

In general, the best time is when you have your first morning pee. However, some pregnancy tests are sensitive enough to detect HCG no matter what time of day you take the test. When possible, try to wait until it’s been three hours since your last pee before you take the test. You could also take two pregnancy tests to confirm you get the same result.

Test Details

How do pregnancy tests work?

When you take a pregnancy test, it’s looking for the amount of human chorionic gonadotropin (HCG) in your body. You can find HCG in your pee or blood. HCG needs time to build up in your body. Each day of early pregnancy, your body will create more HCG. As the weeks go on, you’ll have more and more HCG in your body, which will make it more likely that a pregnancy test will show as positive. This means if you take a test too soon, it will come back negative.

Pregnancy tests work by reacting to the amount of HCG in either your pee or blood. In a urine test, a piece of reactive paper detects the HCG. This test might show a plus sign, double vertical lines or even the word “pregnant.” Different tests will show a positive result in unique ways. Read the directions that come with the test to know what a positive result will look like. For example, most tests have a control window that shows up first. Seeing a symbol in this window will tell you that the test is working. Keep in mind that different brands of tests will take different amounts of time to show a result.

If you take a blood test, your provider will take a sample of your blood and send it to a lab. The lab will determine the amount of HCG in your blood. Your provider will contact you with your results.

What are the different types of pregnancy tests?

There are two main types of pregnancy tests: urine and blood tests.

Urine tests are typically done at home — though you can have a urine test done at your healthcare provider’s office — while your provider performs a blood test.

At-home pregnancy test

An at-home test uses your pee to look for HCG. They contain special strips that detect HCG. Most at-home pregnancy tests are about 99% effective when used correctly. That’s about the same accuracy rate as pregnancy tests done in your healthcare provider’s office. These tests are available in most drug or grocery stores. They’re easy to use and inexpensive. It’s important to read the instructions on these tests before taking them.

There are three ways to take an at-home pregnancy test:

  • Pee in a clean cup. Then, place one to several drops of your pee on a chemical strip.
  • Place the pregnancy test strip in your urine stream while you pee.
  • Pee in a clean cup and then dip the test strip in the pee while it’s still in the cup.

For many of these tests, HCG can be detected in your urine about 10 days after conception. However, taking it after you miss your period reduces the chance of getting a false-negative result. A missed period typically happens around 14 days after conception.

There are a few things to keep in mind when you take a home pregnancy test, including:

  • Use your first morning pee if you can. This is the time of day when your HCG levels will be the most concentrated and easily detected. If you do it at another time of day, try to make sure your pee has been in your bladder for at least three hours.
  • Don’t drink excessive amounts of fluids before you take a pregnancy test. This can dilute (thin out) your HCG levels.
  • Check the expiration date on the package.
  • Read the directions that come with the test thoroughly before starting the test, and follow every step exactly.
Blood test

Another type of pregnancy test is a blood test. Blood tests are rarely done because they’re expensive and tend to have the same result as a urine test. This type of pregnancy test is done using a small sample of blood from a vein in your arm. This blood test not only detects whether the pregnancy hormone is in your body, but can also determine how much of the hormone is present. This is helpful for when your provider needs to know the exact amount of HCG in your blood, not just if there’s HCG in your blood.

A blood test for pregnancy might be done in special circumstances, such as for people who are having fertility treatments or when the healthcare provider thinks there might be a problem.

These blood tests are slightly more sensitive than urine tests because they can detect very small levels of HCG. That means they can provide a more accurate answer very early on in pregnancy — within seven to 10 days after conception. For this test, your blood sample is taken at your provider’s office or the hospital, then sent to a lab for analysis. Results might take anywhere from a few hours to two days.

Your provider might also choose to use a blood test to compare HCG levels during the pregnancy. Your HCG levels usually double about every two days during the first few weeks of pregnancy. If the levels don’t rise, it might suggest a problem with the pregnancy. Extremely high HCG levels might mean that you’re carrying twins or that there’s an issue with the pregnancy.

Are all home pregnancy testing methods the same?

Most brands of at-home pregnancy tests are reliable. Although the exact testing method of different pregnancy tests can differ from one type to the other, they all look for HCG in your body. If you’re using an at-home test, most will give you the same result. The difference with your at-home tests will be the sensitivity of the test. Some might be more sensitive than others and produce a positive result (detect HCG in your urine) sooner than others. For the most accurate reading, it’s still recommended that you wait until you’ve missed your period. At that point, all tests should be accurate.

What are the advantages of using a home pregnancy test?

There are quite a few advantages to using a home pregnancy test, including:

  • Pregnancy tests are inexpensive.
  • They’re easy to use.
  • Home tests provide results quickly.

According to pregnancy kit manufacturers, most at-home pregnancy tests are 98% to 99% accurate when you use them exactly as instructed. Positive results can be trusted, but you can get a false negative result if you take the test too soon.

Blood tests tend to be more expensive and inconvenient. However, blood tests can detect pregnancy sooner and are the only tests to show specific amounts of HCG in your body.

Is there anything you shouldn’t do before a pregnancy test?

Most pregnancy tests don’t ask you to avoid activities or change your lifestyle. The only medication that may interfere with your results is fertility medication containing HCG.

Here are some helpful tips you should follow for the best results:

  • Read the instructions carefully before doing anything.
  • Wait until you miss your period to take the test.
  • Use your first pee or pee from a full bladder. Chugging water before your test in order to pee may affect your results.

Results and Follow-Up

How long does it take to get results of a pregnancy test?

Each home pregnancy test is different. Read the instruction manual carefully. It will tell you how many minutes to wait for your result. In most cases, you can expect to wait three minutes for your result. Keep in mind that if you wait too long to check your result, it may be inaccurate.

Even a faint line on a pregnancy test could mean you’re pregnant. Your test will also have a control window that indicates that you took the test correctly. The instructions with your test will outline all of this. If you have any questions or remain unsure of your result after several tests, please contact your healthcare provider.

A faint line is different than an evaporation line. An evaporation line may appear if you wait too long to check your results — meaning your pee is dry. Most tests ask you to read your results before 10 minutes. This ensures the pee doesn’t dry up and you don’t get an evaporation line.

How soon will a pregnancy test be positive?

It depends on which type of test you use. Some at-home pregnancy tests may be able to detect pregnancy before you miss your period. However, if you want the most accurate result, it’s best to wait until you have missed your period.

How accurate are pregnancy tests?

Pregnancy tests are about 99% accurate when you use them correctly.

How common are false results on pregnancy tests?

False results — either a false negative or a false positive — mainly happen due to using the test incorrectly. The main reason for a false-negative is testing too early. You might also get a false-negative if you use a home test incorrectly, such as using too much or too little pee. It’s important to follow the directions on your test kit to make sure you get an accurate result.

Can a positive test be wrong?

A false positive is rare, but it can happen. This may be the case if you experience a chemical pregnancy or lose the pregnancy shortly after the fertilized egg attaches to your uterine wall.

What type of pregnancy test confirms pregnancy first?

A blood test confirms pregnancy first because it can detect a smaller amount of HCG as compared to a test that uses your pee.

Are there any medications that can change the result of my pregnancy test?

For the most part, medications don’t change your pregnancy test results. Antibiotics, pain relievers and alcohol don’t impact your test results.

However, fertility drugs are one exception. These medications can sometimes cause a false-positive on your pregnancy test. If you’re taking fertility medications, reach out to your healthcare provider about your results to make sure they’re accurate.

What should I do after getting a positive pregnancy test?

If you take a pregnancy test at home and it’s positive, there are a few things you should do, including:

  • Take your prenatal vitamins. Pick a vitamin with folic acid included in the ingredient list. Start taking these while you’re trying to conceive, if possible. This is because the folic acid can help prevent complications during fetal development.
  • Call your healthcare provider for an appointment. This appointment might not happen for several weeks — but it’s a good idea to call your provider and make an appointment.
  • Make sure to pursue healthy habits like not drinking alcohol or smoking during pregnancy. You may also want to limit the amount of caffeine you consume each day during pregnancy.

Additional Details

Will an ectopic pregnancy show up on a pregnancy test?

Yes, you’ll still have a positive result on a pregnancy test if you have an ectopic pregnancy.

A note from Cleveland Clinic

Pregnancy tests are how a person finds out if they’re pregnant. Most people take a pregnancy test at home using their pee. However, you can also take a pregnancy test at your provider’s office using a blood sample or pee. For the most accurate results, wait until you miss your period to take a home pregnancy test. If you use pregnancy tests correctly, the results are 99% accurate. Contact your healthcare provider if you have questions about the results of your pregnancy test.

Fertilization, Process & When It Happens

How does conception occur?

Conception (or fertilization) is when sperm and an egg join together. It’s one of the many steps that happen to create a pregnancy.

Conception is closely related to a person’s menstrual cycle. A menstrual cycle describes the sequence of events that occur within your body as it prepares for the possibility of pregnancy each month. Women or people assigned female at birth (AFAB) ovulate during their menstrual cycle. Ovulation is when your ovary releases an egg for fertilization. Tiny finger-like structures called fimbriae help guide the egg through your fallopian tubes towards your uterus. During this journey through your fallopian tubes, an egg can be fertilized by sperm.

Sperm production begins in the testicles of men or people assigned male at birth (AMAB). During ejaculation, millions of sperm cells are set free with the sole purpose of finding an egg to fertilize. When you have unprotected sex, sperm cells swim up through your vagina and into your fallopian tubes. Millions of sperm battle to reach and penetrate the egg, but only one breaks through the egg's outer layer to fertilize it. If sperm doesn't fertilize an egg, the egg dissolves.

If a sperm is successful on its quest to fertilize an egg, the now fertilized egg (called a zygote) continues to move down your fallopian tube, dividing into two cells, then four cells, then more cells. About a week after the sperm has fertilized the egg, the zygote has traveled to your uterus. It's now a growing cluster of about 100 cells called a blastocyst.

The blastocyst then attaches itself to the lining of your uterus (the endometrium). This attachment process is called implantation. However, just because conception occurs doesn't mean implantation will. Sometimes implantation doesn't happen, and you pass the fertilized egg in your next menstrual period.

If implantation happens, the cells continue to divide — some cells develop into your baby and others form the placenta. You begin to release hormones that tell your body a baby is growing inside your uterus. These hormones also signal the uterus to maintain its lining rather than shed it. This means you won't get your menstrual period, which may be the first way you know you’re pregnant.

Timeline of getting pregnant

You calculate your menstrual cycle from the first day of menstrual bleeding to the start of the next first day of menstrual bleeding. Most menstrual cycles are around 28 days long. The exact time you ovulate varies depending on how long your menstrual cycle is.

The process of getting pregnant in a 28-day menstrual cycle is:

  • Day one: First day of your period.
  • Around day 14: Ovulation occurs.
  • Within 24 hours of ovulation: Sperm fertilizes an egg (conception occurs).
  • About six days after fertilization: The fertilized egg implants into your uterine lining.
  • Around day 21: If conception and implantation occurred during this menstrual cycle, you're pregnant. However, getting a positive pregnancy test may take another five to seven days.
Conception and a positive pregnancy test

After conception, a fertilized egg travels through your fallopian tubes to your uterus. The fertilized egg (called an embryo) implants (attaches) into the wall of your uterus. This triggers the placenta to form. Your placenta begins producing and releasing human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) into your blood and pee. HCG can be found in a person’s blood around 11 days after conception. It takes slightly longer for hCG to show up on at-home pregnancy tests (that measure hCG in pee).

What are my chances of conceiving?

Just because an egg and sperm are near each other doesn't mean conception will happen. In general, conception only happens 25% to 30% of the time. This percentage decreases once you reach age 35.

How does conception work with IVF?

Conception still works the same way — sperm must fertilize an egg. However, with in vitro fertilization (IVF), sperm fertilizes an egg in a lab. An egg, either from the intended parent or a donor, is mixed with sperm from a parent or donor. Conception happens when sperm fertilizes the egg.

Once conception occurs, your provider places the created embryo inside the uterus that will carry the pregnancy for implantation.

When does conception happen?

Conception occurs between 12 and 24 hours after ovulation. It’s sometimes hard to pinpoint ovulation, so using ovulation predictor kits or tracking your menstrual cycle on a calendar may be helpful. The two biggest factors in conception are:

  • The timing of sexual intercourse with ovulation.
  • Egg and sperm health.

When should I have sex to conceive?

Conception can happen after unprotected sex as early as five days before ovulation. This is because some sperm can live that long inside female reproductive organs.

If you’re trying to conceive, the best times to have sex are:

  • In the three days before ovulation: In this scenario, sperm will be “waiting” for the egg to come down the fallopian tube.
  • At ovulation or within 24 hours of ovulating: Your egg lives for only 24 hours, so if you have unprotected sex during this time, your egg may end up “waiting” for sperm to reach it, or they may run into each other in your fallopian tubes.

Where does conception happen?

Conception typically happens in your fallopian tubes. This is where an egg goes after it leaves your ovary and where sperm wait for an egg. In some cases, fertilization can happen in your uterus once your egg has left your fallopian tubes.

What things prevent conception from happening?

Certain health conditions may affect your ability to conceive. Just because the sperm and egg meet doesn't mean fertilization will occur. Some of the most common factors are:

  • Anovulation (you’re not ovulating).
  • Low sperm count or issues with sperm motility (how sperm move).
  • A blockage in the testicles, ovaries or fallopian tubes.
  • Decreasing amount of quality eggs and quality sperm (usually related to aging).

Can you feel conception?

Not usually. You may notice signs that you've ovulated, such as changes in your cervical mucus or basal body temperature. However, most people don't feel fertilization. You may feel a dull ache or experience light spotting several days after conception. This could be from the fertilized egg implanting in your uterus.

When do you start feeling pregnant?

How long it takes to “feel” pregnant varies. Some people may start to feel pregnant shortly after conception, while others don’t have any pregnancy symptoms for weeks after a positive test.

Common signs of pregnancy are:

  • A missed period.
  • Frequent urination.
  • Feeling tired.
  • Nausea.
  • Sore or swollen breasts.
  • Spotting (light vaginal bleeding).
  • Headaches.
  • Mood swings.

Take a home pregnancy test if you have any of the above symptoms and think there’s a chance you’re pregnant. Your healthcare provider can order a blood test to confirm pregnancy.

Are conception and fertilization the same?

Conception and fertilization are two different parts (or steps) of the same process. Conception is the first step, where an egg and sperm join. Fertilization is another step, where the joined sperm and egg plant like a seed into your uterine lining.

How long after conception will my pregnancy test be positive?

It can take between 11 and 14 days after conception to get a positive pregnancy test. At-home pregnancy tests check for human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG), a hormone released by the placenta. Your pee must have enough hCG to get a positive pregnancy test. However, your healthcare provider can check for hCG in your blood sooner — around 10 days after conception.

A note from Cleveland Clinic

Conception is when sperm fertilizes an egg. It’s one of the many critical steps in getting pregnant. Conceiving a child is a complex process dependent on lots of factors. Being unable to conceive is a common problem, and there are lots of resources available to help you. Contact your healthcare provider if you’re struggling with conceiving. They can explain the process and identify any issues preventing conception and pregnancy.

First signs of pregnancy before delay, early symptoms

Significant hormonal changes occur during pregnancy. This causes a number of symptoms. Some women experience pregnancy symptoms right away, while others may only have a few. About the first signs of pregnancy at an early stage and when exactly the initial signs of pregnancy appear are described in the article. nine0004

At what time do the first signs of pregnancy appear

The answer to the question when the first signs of pregnancy appear is quite ambiguous, because some women do not feel any signs at all during the first few weeks. At what week do the first signs of pregnancy appear in others? When do the first signs of pregnancy appear after conception? Symptoms of very early pregnancy (such as breast tenderness) may appear before a missed period, as early as six to seven days after conception, while other early signs of pregnancy (such as spotting) may appear about a week after ovulation. We will tell you more about the first signs of pregnancy before menstruation and when the signs of pregnancy appear. nine0013

What are the earliest signs of pregnancy?

The first signs of pregnancy in the early stages:

  • delayed menstruation - 29%;
  • nausea - 25%;
  • mood swings - from 14 to 23%;
  • breast changes - 17%;
  • pain in the lower abdomen - 15%;
  • depression - 15%;
  • fatigue, drowsiness - 13%
  • decrease in immunity - 6%;
  • the first signs of pregnancy - discharge or implantation bleeding - only 3%. nine0027

Physiological first signs of pregnancy

What are the very first symptoms of pregnancy?

The most common physiological signs of pregnancy include:

  • Tender and enlarged breasts. Signs of pregnancy in the first days after conception include breast changes (1-2 weeks after conception). The area around the nipples, called the areola, may also darken.
    • nine0044
    • Drowsiness and fatigue. Fatigue is also among the signs of pregnancy in the first days after conception. During early pregnancy, levels of the hormone progesterone rise dramatically, which can cause drowsiness.
    • Nausea with vomiting. When do these signs of pregnancy appear? Morning sickness, which can appear at any time of the day or night, often appears between the second and eighth weeks after conception. nine0027
    • Dizziness and fainting . This may be due to dilation of blood vessels, lowering blood pressure and blood sugar levels.
    • Spasms. Some women experience symptoms of pregnancy in the early days, such as mild uterine cramps.
    • Headaches and back pains. Many pregnant women complain of frequent headaches, while others experience back pain.
      • nine0044
      • Insomnia - another first sign of pregnancy before the test. Causes can include stress, physical discomfort, and hormonal changes.
      • Change in taste preferences. Like most other symptoms of pregnancy, these eating habits can be attributed to hormonal changes.
      • Temperature. Early signs of pregnancy include fever (37-37.5).
      • Delayed menstruation. How long does it take for the first signs of pregnancy to appear? If you are of childbearing age and a week or more has passed without your expected period, you may be pregnant. However, this symptom can be misleading if you have an irregular menstrual cycle.
      • Bloody discharge - the first signs of pregnancy . This bleeding, known as implantation bleeding, occurs when a fertilized egg attaches to the lining of the uterus, approximately 10 to 14 days after conception. nine0027
      • Bloating, heartburn. Hormonal changes can cause problems with the stomach and esophagus - these are common signs of pregnancy at 2 weeks.
      • Constipation . Hormonal changes cause the digestive system to slow down, which can lead to constipation (signs of pregnancy after a delay).
      • Frequent urination. You may urinate more than usual, which is a common sign of pregnancy at 5 weeks. During pregnancy, the amount of blood in the body increases, causing the kidneys to process excess fluid that enters the bladder. nine0027
      • Runny nose. The appearance of this symptom is associated with excessive production of the hormone estrogen.
      • Exacerbation of chronic diseases. This is a sign of pregnancy after ovulation.
      • Increased salivation. Also associated with hormonal changes.
      • Sense of smell enhancement . Signs of pregnancy in the first two weeks may cause sensitivity to certain smells and the sense of taste may change. nine0027

      Emotional first signs of pregnancy

      The first signs of pregnancy before the delay (the earliest signs of pregnancy) include psycho-emotional symptoms.

      1. Mood swings.
      2. Irritability.
      3. Vulnerability, tearfulness.
      4. Capriciousness.
      5. Depression.

      These are all emotional signs of early pregnancy that many women report. They describe feelings of heightened emotion or even bouts of crying, which are associated with rapid changes in hormone levels in the body. Also, signs of pregnancy at week 4 can make you feel PMS-style cranky. In addition, about 15% of women suffer from depression or anxiety during pregnancy. And after childbirth, these conditions suffer even more. In this case, it is better to seek help from a doctor. nine0013

      Do everything you can to improve your mood: get plenty of rest, eat well, get enough sleep, do things you love, and pamper yourself.

      However, be aware that mood swings can be caused by a number of conditions other than pregnancy.

      Influence of early pregnancy on daily routine

      Early signs of pregnancy, mainly those that bring discomfort, can cause a change in daily routine. Here are some tips on what you can do with some of them:

      1. In case of toxicosis, avoid too hot or too cold food - this provokes an attack of vomiting. Eat often - at least 5-6 times a day, but in small portions.
      2. For nausea or vomiting, try ginger, chamomile, or vitamin B6.
      3. Drink plenty of water, in small sips between meals, to replenish lost fluids. Teas, juices, fruit drinks are also suitable.
      4. For back pain, wear shoes or shoe insoles designed for pregnant women and avoid high heels. Sleep on a firm mattress. nine0027
      5. For chest discomfort, wear a special bra that supports enlarged breasts.
      6. For constipation, eat more fiber-rich foods such as wheat bran and fresh vegetables and fruits.
      7. If you suffer from headaches and mood swings, try stress reduction techniques such as yoga or meditation.
      8. Be outdoors more often, at least half an hour a day. This helps to reduce the symptoms of toxicosis, calm the nervous system. nine0027
      9. Maintain your daily physical activity for as long as it is convenient for you to perform certain activities.
      10. Eat a balanced diet with enough proteins, fats and carbohydrates.

      Important! All these tips are advisory in nature, be sure to consult your doctor if you encounter discomfort.

      What to do if you notice early signs of pregnancy

      To make sure the signs of pregnancy are accurate, you can use the following methods to diagnose early pregnancy:

      1. Donate blood for hCG. This method can be used a few days after conception. This type of pregnancy test is done using a small sample of blood that is analyzed in a hospital. It determines whether there is a pregnancy hormone in your body and in what quantity. Its accuracy is 99%.
      2. Use a test strip. It can be used at home from the first days of delay. To determine pregnancy, dip the reagent area of ​​the test strip into the urine. Accuracy: 9nine%. You can buy Evitest or HomeTest test strips in our pharmacy.
      3. Use jet or electronic test. They can be used at home a few days before your expected period. You need to remove its protective cap, substitute the test under the stream of urine for 10 seconds, and after 3-5 minutes get the result. Accuracy: 97%. In our pharmacy you can buy Evitest or Alpe inkjet tests.
      4. Get your first ultrasound. You can use this method at 3-4 weeks from the start of a missed period. At this time, ultrasound will show the very fact of uterine pregnancy, and the place of attachment of the fetal egg is also determined. Accuracy: 100%. nine0057

      Help Doc.ua: you can make an appointment with a gynecologist on the website.

      Which signs of pregnancy can be trusted and which not?

      You can listen to the short version of the article. If it's more convenient for you, turn on the podcast.

      The most reliable signs of pregnancy are a positive blood test for hCG (human chorionic gonadotropin) and an ultrasound confirming the fact of conception. But sometimes you want to clarify the situation before going to the doctor or pharmacy. And this can really be done with high accuracy if you know which symptoms and in what period to pay attention. nine0013

      At what time do the first signs of pregnancy appear? or “we slept together, and after three days morning sickness appeared and everything became obvious” - this is something like an urban legend.

      They have nothing to do with science.

      The earliest signs of pregnancy appear at best 6 days after conception. And it's not for all women.

      The reason is physiology. For a pregnancy to occur, the egg must meet with the sperm in the fallopian tube. This should happen within one or two days after ovulation - the maturation of the egg in the ovary. The fertilized egg then travels to the uterus to attach to it. nine0013

      This process takes at least a few days - on average, from 6 to 10. Moreover, until the egg begins to fix itself in the endometrium lining the uterus, no changes in well-being can be noticed. Simply because they are not and cannot be.

      Actually, it is the implantation (introduction) of the embryo into the wall of the uterus that doctors consider the beginning of pregnancy. And this is logical. If a woman is taking oral contraceptives or has an intrauterine device, implantation will not occur. Accordingly, pregnancy will not occur and will not be able to make itself felt with any symptoms. nine0013

      Conclusion: it is useless to look for signs of pregnancy earlier than 6 days after unprotected intercourse. But after this period, you can already begin to listen to yourself.

      Which Early Signs of Pregnancy You Can Trust

      There are traditional signs of pregnancy related to well-being: morning sickness with or without vomiting, painful breasts, changes in taste… And most of them are really worthy of attention.

      Patricia A. Yost

      OB/GYN, MD

      Even if you feel a little different than usual, it's enough to suggest pregnancy.

      But at the same time, these symptoms may have other causes. The real signs of pregnancy manifest themselves in strictly defined terms - this is due to the physiology, which we talked about above.

      Therefore, if any change in your health seems suspicious to you, be sure to check how much time has passed since the alleged conception (or the first day of the last menstruation - the so-called obstetric period is counted from it). nine0013

      Here are the most common and reliable symptoms that you are pregnant. Not all of them may be present specifically for you. But the more of them, the higher the likelihood that you are in a position.

      1. Mild cramps in the lower abdomen

      • Onset : 6-12 days after conception (4-5 weeks after last period).

      When a fertilized egg implants in the wall of the uterus, some women experience mild spasmodic pain in the lower abdomen. It can last 1-2 days until the implantation process is completed. These sensations are also enhanced by increased blood flow to the uterus. nine0013

      However, pain in the lower abdomen often also occurs before menstruation, when the uterus is preparing to reject the thickened endometrium that is not needed this time. If you are not pregnant, after a couple of days these cramps will end with menstruation. But if the stomach hurt and stopped and menstruation did not come, you should be wary.

      2.

      Spotting spotting
      • When appears: 6-12 days after the expected conception, that is, on the days of the expected menstruation (4-5th week from the beginning of the last menstruation). nine0027

      The process of egg implantation in the uterine wall can be accompanied not only by pain, but also by the so-called implantation bleeding. It is small and usually consists of small, light red or brownish discharge that stops within a couple of days.

      Sometimes women overlook this symptom, thinking it is simply too weak menstruation. But menstruation cannot be "too weak", this is important. If the monthly bleeding of your usual volumes did not come after the spotting discharge, you are most likely pregnant. nine0013

      3. Heavy, painful breasts

      • When appears: 6-12 days after conception (4-5 weeks from the beginning of the last menstruation).

      This is how the mammary glands react to hormonal changes in the body that begin after the implantation of the egg. This is a fairly common and characteristic symptom. According to a survey conducted by the American Pregnancy Association, for 17% of women, swollen breasts were the first sign of their new condition. nine0013

      At the same time, breast enlargement and soreness can also be associated with approaching menstruation - the so-called premenstrual syndrome.

      4. Unmotivated weakness, fatigue

      • When appears: 6-12 days after the expected conception (4-5 weeks from the beginning of the last menstruation).

      During and after egg implantation, the body begins to produce progesterone, a hormone that helps maintain pregnancy. A side effect of its increased level is sudden weakness, drowsiness, laziness, unwillingness to do anything. Later, when the female body adapts to the changed hormonal background, vigor will return. But at the very start of pregnancy, weakness is most noticeable. nine0013

      However, concluding that you are pregnant just because you suddenly want to crawl under the covers and do nothing is not worth it. Unmotivated fatigue can have dozens of different reasons - from banal overwork or ordinary SARS to much more dangerous diseases. Keep monitoring your condition.

      5. Delayed period

      • When appears: about 14 days after conception (weeks 5-6 from the beginning of the last period) with a normal 28-day cycle. nine0027

      Absence of menstruation is the key and most understandable sign of pregnancy. Nearly 30% of women surveyed by the American Pregnancy Association said it was what made them take the test.

      Nevertheless, a delay in menstruation is still not an unambiguous sign. It can be related to a host of other factors besides pregnancy: stress, weight loss, exercising too intensely, jet lag, certain medications.

      6. Nausea (early toxicosis)

      • When appears: about 14 days after conception (weeks 5-6 from last period).

      They like to show this sign in films so that the viewer understands that the heroine is pregnant. But nausea appears no earlier than 2 weeks after conception. Scientists do not fully understand what this process is connected with, however, they suggest that this is the body's reaction to a changed hormonal background.

      If you feel sick 3-7 days after sexual intercourse, it is more likely to be digestive problems, rather than early toxicosis, because at this time the level of hormones does not change significantly. nine0013

      7. Sensitivity to smells

      • When appears: about 14 days after conception (weeks 5-6 from last period).

      This symptom is caused by the same hormonal changes as nausea. Sometimes it appears even before the delay of menstruation. For example, you become unbearable smell from smoking colleagues. Or he begins to feel sick from the aroma of his favorite flowers, perfumes, dishes. This is a good reason to at least buy a pregnancy test. nine0013

      8. Bloating and constipation

      • When appears: 6-12 days after conception (4-5 weeks from the beginning of the last menstruation).

      Progesterone causes some muscle relaxation. This also applies to the muscles of the intestines. For this reason, the digestive process slows down, feces remain in the intestines longer. Which often causes a bursting sensation in the abdomen and constipation.

      However, be aware that bloating and constipation can have dozens of other causes besides pregnancy. Therefore, it makes sense to consider this symptom only in combination with others. nine0013

      9. Frequent urination

      • When appears: 14-21 days after conception (5-6th week from the beginning of the last menstruation).

      In the first weeks of pregnancy, the body actively produces the hormone hCG. It increases blood flow to the pelvis, causing women to run to the toilet more often.

      10. Increased basal temperature

      • When appears: 14-21 days after conception (5-6th week from the beginning of the last menstruation). nine0027

      Basal body temperature is measured in the mouth, rectum or vagina. It rises during ovulation - that is, during the period when the egg leaves the ovary into the fallopian tube. During pregnancy, basal temperature can also increase. But this happens not earlier than the sixth obstetric week.

      11. Mood swings

      • When appears: 7-10 days after the start of the delay of menstruation (from the 6th week from the beginning of the last menstruation).

      Mood swings are caused by hormonal changes that a pregnant woman goes through. However, these changes increase gradually and become significant after a delay in menstruation. nine0013

      If irritability, anxiety, tearfulness occur much earlier, most likely, it is not about pregnancy, but about banal PMS or stress.

      12. Dizziness

      • When appears: from 14-21 days after conception (from 5-6 weeks from the beginning of the last menstruation).

      In the early stages of pregnancy, blood pressure often drops. This is due to the fact that the uterus requires more blood supply, the blood vessels dilate to provide the necessary blood flow, and the heart is not yet ready to pump the required volumes. The pressure decreases, this process is accompanied by dizziness. nine0013

      However, dizziness can have other causes, including dangerous ones. If you begin to regularly “sickness”, consult a general practitioner or (if pregnancy has already been established) a gynecologist.

      13. Accelerated pulse

      • When appears: from the 8th to 10th week from the beginning of the last menstruation.

      During pregnancy, the heart has to pump more blood - this is necessary for proper nutrition of the growing uterus and fetus. Therefore, it begins to work more actively. An increased heart rate is a common symptom in pregnant women, but it occurs already at those times when pregnancy is in most cases obvious. nine0013

      But again, keep in mind that fast heartbeat (tachycardia) can also occur for other reasons - for example, with cardiovascular diseases. In any case, such conditions, if they began to manifest themselves regularly, require consultation with a general practitioner, gynecologist or cardiologist.

      14. Pimples

      • When appears: usually not earlier than the 11th week after the beginning of the last menstruation.

      Increased blood volume and increased hormone levels increase blood flow. This leads to the fact that the sebaceous glands of the body begin to work more actively than usual. Acne is often a side effect of this activity. nine0013

      However, acne has many other causes, so do not rush to write off pimples for pregnancy. You may be able to quickly get rid of them if you make small changes in your lifestyle.

      Signs of pregnancy to avoid

      1. Diarrhea

      Liquid, watery stools are also sometimes considered a sign of pregnancy. But it's not. On the contrary, you are more likely to become constipated in the early stages of pregnancy. Exclusively for hormonal reasons, which we wrote about above. nine0013

      If you do develop diarrhea, it is likely caused by other factors: you may have eaten something that was not right, or you may have contracted a rotavirus infection.

      2. Abrupt changes in taste preferences

      There are legends about the love of pregnant women for peaches with herring or strawberries with soy sauce. But there is little convincing scientific evidence that women experience cravings for unusual flavor combinations during pregnancy.

      Rather, we are talking about some changes in appetite associated with early toxicosis and sensitivity to smells. So, you may want to give up your usual coffee or fried foods - simply because their pungent smell will become disgusting. nine0013

      However, there is still a craving for non-standard dishes. As a rule, it is associated with the fact that the body of a pregnant woman is deficient in certain essential vitamins and minerals. And he tries to cover their shortage by making the hostess want chalk (this may be a sign of iron deficiency) or, for example, pickles (deficiency of some salts) with raspberry jam (vitamin C deficiency). But such food perversions occur at solid terms of pregnancy, when it is already obvious.

      3. Dreams about fish and other signs

      But these variants have nothing to do with evidence-based medicine at all, no matter at what moment they appear. Also, do not try to detect pregnancy with the help of fortune-telling and waving a ring on a string.

      How to establish pregnancy for sure

      To begin with, listen to yourself, but don't go crazy. If you have a couple of reliable signs, invest in a quality pharmacy test. With its help, you can determine pregnancy as early as 10–12 days after fertilization. nine0013

      If you want to clarify earlier, take a blood test for hCG (human chorionic gonadotropin). It can be done in any certified medical laboratory, and the results will be ready within a few hours.

      Lia Moss

      Nurse Midwife at Northwestern University School of Medicine

      An hCG blood test can detect pregnancy as early as 7 to 10 days after conception. But be aware: too early testing can give a false positive result. nine0013

      If the test is positive, go to the gynecologist.

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