Are you wondering if you might be pregnant? That question alone can bring a mix of emotions and uncertainty. The best way to know is by taking a pregnancy test at the right time for the most accurate results.

Most at-home pregnancy tests claim to be 99% accurate on the first day of your missed period. However, testing too early can sometimes lead to false negatives, as pregnancy hormones may not yet be at detectable levels.

Keep reading to learn more about early pregnancy symptoms and how pregnancy tests work. Or, if you want no-cost pregnancy testing, the Acadiana Pregnancy Center & Clinic is here to help.

Early Signs of Pregnancy

A missed period is often the first noticeable sign of pregnancy, but for women with irregular cycles, this can be less reliable. Other early symptoms may include:

• Tender, swollen breasts: Caused by hormonal changes, which may subside after a few weeks.
• Nausea or morning sickness: This can start one to two months after conception and may occur at any time of day.
• Frequent urination: The body produces more fluid during pregnancy, increasing bathroom trips.
• Fatigue: A surge in progesterone levels can lead to extreme tiredness.

Not all women experience these symptoms, and some signs could be related to other health conditions. That’s why pregnancy testing is the most reliable way to confirm pregnancy.

How Pregnancy Tests Work

Pregnancy tests detect human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG), a hormone produced when pregnancy begins. Urine tests, available at pharmacies or grocery stores, are the most common, while blood tests are done in a medical setting.

For the most accurate results, it’s best to take a pregnancy test on the first day of a missed period or later. If taken too early, hCG levels may not be high enough to register, leading to a false negative. Taking it in the morning when your urine is most concentrated is also a good idea.

What Should I Do If I Get a Positive Test?

If you get a positive result, it’s important to confirm it with a second test. The Acadiana Pregnancy Center & Clinic offers no-cost pregnancy testing to help you get clear answers.

We also provide ultrasounds to give you essential details about your pregnancy, including how far along you are and whether the pregnancy is developing as expected.

If you think you might be pregnant, schedule a no-cost appointment with us today to receive support and accurate information about your options.