Not everyone who is pregnant has obvious symptoms. When you need answers, know that RealOptions is here for you.
We’ll discuss common symptoms and when to take a test below.
Getting the Facts
First, know that it is very uncommon for women to experience a cryptic pregnancy. A cryptic pregnancy is when you don’t realize you’re pregnant for longer periods of time, which can happen if you don’t know the typical pregnancy symptoms, don’t have any symptoms, usually have irregular periods, have a false-negative pregnancy test, and more.
Only about 1 in 475 pregnancies go undetected until 20 weeks gestation. The number drops significantly to about 1 in 2,500 for pregnancies going unnoticed until delivery.
With these facts in mind, know that learning common pregnancy symptoms and understanding your menstrual cycle (whether regular or irregular) can provide clues as to whether you’re pregnant.
Symptoms to Look For
Pregnancy symptoms vary from woman to woman. Some may not have any symptoms aside from a missed period, and typical signs like nausea or fatigue could actually indicate hormonal imbalances or other health conditions for others.
The only way to get an initial result is via a pregnancy test. Still, learning common symptoms can help you pinpoint when to take that test.
Symptoms include:
- Missed period
- Tender, swollen breasts
- Frequent urination
- Fatigue
- Nausea (with or without vomiting)
- Bloating
- Cramping
- Nasal congestion
- Constipation
- Food aversions
- Moodiness
No Symptoms?
You can’t completely rule out pregnancy if you’ve been sexually active but have no symptoms. To make matters more complicated, some women have an irregular menstrual cycle and thus can’t rely on a missed period. Taking a pregnancy test several weeks after sexual intercourse will provide an initial result.
Waiting a few weeks gives hCG (human chorionic gonadotropin) time to develop and be detected by the test. All blood and urine-based tests detect this pregnancy hormone, and receiving that positive result will help provide clarity.
Receiving a false-negative result (when you’re pregnant but don’t have a positive test) can happen if you test too early. Waiting a few days after a negative result to test again can help you feel more confident about the result.
Additionally, a false-positive is rare but can happen if you take certain fertility medicines, have certain reproductive health conditions, read the test result after the allotted time as listed in the testing instructions or experience a pregnancy loss shortly after implantation. This Pregnancy and Infant Loss Awareness Month, know that RealOptions is here if you have faced a loss and are seeking emotional support.
RealOptions will help you find the answers you’re looking for and process your emotions during this time.
We Can Help
RealOptions provides lab-grade pregnancy tests to give you that initial result. Our highly-trained medical team will answer your questions, and we’ll even offer an ultrasound if your test is positive. This scan medically confirms your pregnancy and addresses your next steps.
As a Medi-Cal and presumptive eligibility provider, we offer services with or without insurance. If you are concerned about your financial ability to pay for a service, you may be eligible for a state-funded financial aid program that would provide services for you at no cost.
We’re committed to offering patients high-quality, low to no-cost services. No matter what you’re facing, we’re here for you. Schedule an appointment today. You deserve the gold standard of care.
400 30th St #401
Oakland, CA 94609
(510) 891-9998
1671 The Alameda #101
San Jose, CA
(408) 978-9310
12 N White Rd
San Jose, CA
(408) 272-5577
33523 Western Ave.
Union City, CA 94857
(510) 487-4357
Disclaimer: This website and blog does not provide medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Content from this website and blog is not intended to be used for medical diagnosis or treatment. The information provided on this website is intended for general understanding only and is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice.
