Early Pregnancy Signs & Symptoms
Am I Pregnant?
Facing an unintended pregnancy can feel overwhelming—especially if you were using birth control and didn’t expect this outcome. Whatever you're feeling right now—shock, confusion, fear, or even numbness—please know you’re not alone.
At Care Net of Missoula, we’re here to walk with you through this moment. We offer a safe, supportive space where you can explore your options, ask questions, and receive personalized care tailored to your unique needs. Your story matters, and so does your well-being.
Early Pregnancy Signs and Symptoms
Pregnancy brings about various physical and emotional changes, although not every woman experiences the same symptoms.
Here are some common signs to look for
Bloating
Feeling bloated is normal, especially in the early months of pregnancy. Increased hormones such as progesterone slow digestion, causing gas to be trapped in the intestines, leading to abdominal bloating.
Cramping and Spotting
Mild cramping and spotting can occur, often mistaken for a period. Approximately one in four women will experience spotting during early pregnancy.
Nausea and Vomiting
Morning sickness—often involving nausea and sometimes vomiting—is a common experience during pregnancy, especially in the first trimester.
Fatigue
Feeling more tired than usual is a common part of pregnancy, especially in the early stages, due to hormonal changes and the physical demands on your body.
Mood Swing
During the early stages of pregnancy, shifting hormone levels can cause mood swings or changes in emotions. These experiences are common and completely normal.
Breast Changes
Tender, swollen breasts or changes in nipple color are common.
Sensitivity to Smells
It’s common to become more sensitive to smells during the early stages of pregnancy—even familiar scents can suddenly feel overwhelming.
When To Take A Pregnancy Test
Some tests can detect pregnancy 10 days after conception. However, the best time to take a pregnancy test is after you miss your period. If you experience irregular cycles, don’t chart your cycles, or have been on birth control, take a test after the longest menstrual cycle you’ve had. For example, if your cycles range from 25 to 28 days, the best time to take a test would be day 29 or later.
Now that you know the day, the best time to take a pregnancy test is when you first wake up.
Type Of Pregnancy Tests
There are three types of pregnancy tests: an at-home pregnancy test, a clinical urine test, and a blood test. The last two require the oversight of a licensed medical professional.
Pregnancy tests often reveal lines, positive or negative symbols, and writing such as pregnant and not pregnant to inform you of your result. If you’re taking an at-home pregnancy test, you must follow the instructions carefully to determine whether or not you’re pregnant.
Understanding Your Pregnancy Results
An at-home and clinical pregnancy test measures the level of human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG), which determines whether or not you’re pregnant. The lines have particular colors, designs, and symbols that respond to the hCG levels in your body. The hCG hormone is referred to as the pregnancy hormone because it is created by cells formed in the placenta.
It’s important to follow the directions to get an accurate reading. Otherwise, a false-positive result could occur due to user error. Additionally, two different pregnancy tests have specific timing, sensitivities, and accuracy. If you plan on testing multiple times, always use the same brand.
Why Choose Care Net of Missoula
If you think you might be pregnant and would like a clinical pregnancy test, Care Net of Missoula is here to help. We offer medical-grade pregnancy testing at no cost, and if your test is positive, we can provide a limited ultrasound to help determine how far along you are and whether the pregnancy is located where it should be.
Our caring team is here to walk with you—providing clear information, answering your questions, and helping you understand all your options in a supportive, judgment-free space.
You don’t have to navigate this alone. We’re here to support you every step of the way.