My period is late. Could I be pregnant?

If your period is late or your body just feels different, you may be wondering, “Could I be pregnant?” Pregnancy symptoms can start early, but every woman is different. Some notice several changes right away, while others may have almost no symptoms at all.

What Are the First Signs of Pregnancy?

A missed period is one of the most common early signs of pregnancy, especially if your periods are usually regular. But it isn't the only sign.

Early pregnancy symptoms may include:

• A missed or late period

• Sore or tender breasts

• Feeling more tired than usual

• Nausea or vomiting

• Needing to pee more often

• Mild cramping

• Light spotting

• Feeling bloated

• Changes in your appetite

• Foods or smells suddenly bothering you

• Mood changes

You may have several of these symptoms, only one, or none at all. Some early pregnancy symptoms can also feel a lot like the symptoms you have before your period starts. 

Does Having Pregnancy Symptoms Mean I'm Pregnant?

Not necessarily. Stress, illness, changes in your period, and other things can cause some of the same symptoms. And you can be pregnant without feeling different yet.

A pregnancy test is a better way to find out than trying to decide based on symptoms alone. Home pregnancy tests are generally more likely to give an accurate result after the first day of a missed period. If your test is negative but your period still doesn't come, you can test again in a few days or contact a healthcare provider. 

What Should I Do If I Think I'm Pregnant?

You don't have to have everything figured out before asking for help. If you think you may be pregnant, Hope Haven Pregnancy Center can help you take the next step and find the support and resources you need.

If your pregnancy test is positive, it's also important to connect with a healthcare provider for prenatal care. 

Hope Haven provides free pregnancy support for women and teens in Lawrenceburg, Lawrence County, Tennessee, and surrounding communities. Whether you have questions about pregnancy, preparing for a baby, parenting, or what comes next, you can start by talking with us.

Think you might be pregnant?

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For more information about early pregnancy symptoms, visit Mayo Clinic's guide to the signs and symptoms of pregnancy.