Have you ever heard that no two pregnancy is the same? Well, it’s true. Early detection of pregnancy differs for everyone. If you’ve had unprotected sexual intercourse or haven't seen your period, it could be a sign. However, some signs may be mistaken for pregnancy. Some reproductive medical conditions share common signs with pregnancy. A missed period is one of them. So, how do you accurately detect pregnancy?
This article will break down early pregnancy signs and what to do after a pregnancy test.
Before you become pregnant, your body undergoes several changes. One of them is the pioneer in this cycle, which is ovulation.
What is ovulation?
Ovulation is the period just before your menstrual cycle. Ideally, it occurs two weeks after the last day of your period. It ranges between 28 to 30 days. However, it differs for everyone.
During this period, your ovaries release eggs into the fallopian tube, waiting for fertilization by the sperm. If fertilization doesn’t occur, your body absorbs the egg. This process takes between 12 to 24 hours to complete.
Signs of ovulation
This can be difficult as they aren’t as obvious as signs from your menstrual cycle. However, there are a few common signs you may have experienced concurrently:
- Pain at one side of your lower abdomen.
- Change in vaginal discharge. You’ll notice a clear, wet, and stretchy secretion. They become thicker after ovulation.
- Increase in sexual urge.
- Increased senses, e.g., smell.
- Breast tenderness.
- Unoticable spotting.
After ovulation comes fertilization. If you had unprotected sex after 24 hours, the sperm swims towards your eggs for fertilization. Just one sperm can fertilize your egg. After this, the fertilized egg attaches to the lining of your uterus. Now, the placenta begins to form.
After 11 days, your body produces a hormone called hCG (Human Chorionic Gonadotrophin) immediately after conception. A positive test result on the first day of your missed period shows you are about 2 weeks pregnant. More sensitive tests may confirm your pregnancy from around 8 days after conception.
You may opt for an at-home pregnancy kit. The one with a strip-like device. It uses your urine to test for the level of hCG present and detects if you’re pregnant. They are 98% accurate and safe to use.
You may also carry out a blood test with your doctor if you’re unsatisfied with your home kit's results. The blood test is more accurate and detects even the littlest amount of hCG in your system.
How can I tell if I am pregnant without taking a test?
Are you wondering if you are pregnant? Though pregnancy tests and ultrasounds are the most accurate and only ways to determine if you are pregnant, there are other signs and symptoms you can look out for before taking a test or doing an ultrasound.
- Light bleeding and cramping
- Nausea and change in appetite
- Breast changes
- Fatigue
- Increased urination
- Missed period
A widespread misconception is that a missed period is the only sign of pregnancy. This is just the earliest sign of pregnancy. There are various signs dependent on your body system.
After you detect your pregnancy, speak to your doctor about the next steps. They’ll educate you on prioritizing prenatal vitamins and making lifestyle changes, like eating healthy, avoiding alcohol, etc.
Just found out you’re pregnant? Let’s give you a memorable experience during your pregnancy. PreggClass is an online antenatal program that helps pregnant women access resources, 24/7 medical check-ins, and expert-led information from our experts! But there’s more! Send us a message on WhatsApp for more!