Have you recently had sex and are now beginning to wonder if you’re pregnant? Early pregnancy symptoms can be very similar to the start of a woman’s period. Let’s sort out the signs of pregnancy vs. premenstrual symptoms (PMS).

If you’re concerned about a possible pregnancy, come to the Heart of the Hills for free and confidential pregnancy testing, but wait until after your missed period. We’ll explain why.

Can Pregnancy and PMS Have the Same Symptoms?

Depending on your usual menstrual cycle, there can be overlapping signs. Both early pregnancy and PMS can cause the same symptoms due to hormonal changes. The following are the similarities:

• Breast tenderness and swelling.
• Mood changes.
• Tiredness and fatigue.
• Food cravings and aversions.
• Mild cramping.

What Are the Differences?

Pregnancy symptoms do vary from PMS symptoms in some fundamental ways. Here are a few common signs of pregnancy:

• A missed period is usually the first sign.
• Nausea and vomiting.
• Frequent urination.
• Implantation bleeding. When you become pregnant, you may experience light pink or brown spotting a few days before your period, which could signal implantation, not menstruation.

When Can I Take a Pregnancy Test?

When a woman becomes pregnant, her body begins producing a hormone called human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG). The hormone builds rapidly and eventually enters her urine and bloodstream. If a pregnancy test detects hCG, you are usually pregnant.

Healthcare professionals recommend not testing until a day or two after your missed period. Your body needs time for the hCG to reach detectable levels.

Can I Take a Home Pregnancy Test?

Over-the-counter pregnancy tests are reliable, but you have to follow the directions carefully. Here are the steps you should take:

• Check the expiration date.
• Read the directions thoroughly before beginning the test.
• Wait until a day or two after your missed period.
• Take the test in the morning when your urine is most concentrated.
• Check the results after the recommended amount of time.
• Retest in 3 to 5 days to verify your results.

Let Heart of the Hills Help You

Taking a test can be stressful if you’re worried about the outcome. Whether it’s your first pregnancy test or you need to retest, come to Heart of the Hills for free and confidential pregnancy testing.

If your test is positive, we’ll schedule you for a free and confidential ultrasound. There’s more to know about your pregnancy, and an ultrasound provides the information you need.

Call 210-972-7282 to schedule an appointment. We’re here for you.