Are You Pregnant? How The First Stage Of Pregnancy Can Give You Warning Signs

Each year, a large number of women realize that they are pregnant. While a large number of these pregnancies are planned, not all are. For that reason, there may come a time where you may end up wondering whether or not you are pregnant.

When it comes to determining whether or not you are with child, you may wish to take a home pregnancy test or schedule an appointment with your primary care physician. While these are the best ways to determine whether or not you are pregnant, did you know that you have other alternatives? In the early stages of pregnancy, which is often referred to as the first trimester, pregnant women tend to show a number of symptoms; symptoms which may help to alert you to the impending addition to your family.

As previously mentioned, the early stages of pregnancy are often referred to as the first trimester. The first trimester is from conception until the fetus is around twelve weeks of age. One of the most common signs of pregnancy is a missed menstrual period. Although a missed period is a sign of pregnancy, it may not be the reason for the missed menstrual period. A large number of women experience irregular periods normally and other times they are attributed to stress. Fatigue and nausea are also symptoms of pregnancy; however, as with your menstrual period, it is not uncommon for fatigue or nausea to be the result of another medical issue.

In addition to fatigue, nausea, and a missed menstrual period, women who are pregnant tend to notice other changes with their body. These changes tend to include changes to skin color, a swollen abdomen, as well as enlarged breasts. If you feel that you may be pregnant, you are advised to examine each of the above mentioned body parts. Whether your breasts appear to be larger than normal, you notice your stomach has increased in size, or that your skin color appears to darken, it may be time for you to schedule an appointment with your primary care physician or, at least, take a home pregnancy test.

If and when you decide to take a home pregnancy test, the results will help to determine your next course of action. Perhaps, the first thing that you should do, if you haven?t already done so, is schedule an appointment with a healthcare professional. If you are experiencing pregnancy for the first time, you may feel more comfortable visiting your primary care physician. Regardless of who you visit, it is important that you seek professional assistance, to give you confirmation on your pregnancy. The confirmation will likely be made with an ultrasound or a urine test.

Although you may have chosen to visit your primary care physician, you may have also made the decision to visit an OBGYN. An OBGYN is a professional who specializes in obstetrics and gynecology. No matter where you live in the United States, you should have access to a number of qualified OBGYNs. As you are likely already aware, if your pregnancy is confirmed, you and your baby will need continuous care throughout your entire pregnancy. That care can come from a number of different sources.

When pregnant, many women make the decision to seek treatment from an OBGYN, while others turn to a certified nurse midwife or their primary care physician. In the event that you originally visited your primary care physician and they are unable to provide you with pregnancy care, they should provide you with a number of referrals; referrals to other professionals who should be able to offer you the care that you and your baby need.

Throughout your first trimester, as well as your whole pregnancy, you will likely be required to attend numerous checkup appointments. While testing may be performed at these appointments, such as testing for sexually transmitted diseases, diabetes, or genetic disorders, your appointments will mostly be used to monitor your overall health, as well as well as the health of your baby. Whether you choose to seek pregnancy care from your primary care physician, a certified nurse midwife, or an OBYN, you will likely have these appointments, as well as the importance of them, explained to you in advance. As you will likely hear from your pregnancy care provider, it is extremely important that you attend each and every one of your prenatal visits.

Although there is a good chance that you will pleased with the fact that you are pregnant, for some, unexpected pregnancies couldn?t come at a worse time. However, it is important to note that you have a number of different options. In addition to delivering and raising your baby, you could also make the decision to terminate your pregnancy or give your child up for adoption. No matter which route you decide to choose, it is important that you first seek care and advice from a professional healthcare provider.

Tamra Rockwell is a pregnancy counselor, and is also a contributor to http://www.Healthline.com.