Pregnancy Services
You need to know your options.
Pregnancy Signs & Symptoms
The first and most notable sign of early pregnancy is a late or missed period. A typical menstrual cycle can last anywhere from 21 to 35 days. If your cycle typically lasts 29 days and it has been 30 or 31 days and your period has not started, then your period is late. If your cycle typically lasts 29 days and your period does not start by day 36, you have missed a period.
The following signs of pregnancy may vary as each woman and pregnancy is unique. Each woman’s experience will be different, so after the first pregnancy sign of a missed or late period, your next signs and symptoms may include:
- Fatigue
- Nausea
- Frequent Urination
- Swollen Breasts
- Strange Food Cravings
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.
Types 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 can provide invalid results, and false positives can still happen. Hormonal changes, stress, diet, and exercise all influence your cycle and reproductive health. Home tests can produce incorrect results for other reasons as well. The first thing you need to do is confirm that you are pregnant. If you have received a positive pregnancy test result, the next step is to confirm your pregnancy with an ultrasound.
Pregnancy Confirmation with an OB Ultrasound
An ultrasound can verify your pregnancy, detect signs of a possible natural miscarriage, and detect signs of a possible ectopic pregnancy. An ultrasound also helps determine how far along your pregnancy has progressed. The date of conception is often earlier or later than estimated, throwing off due date estimates.
An ultrasound provides essential information in making an informed pregnancy decision. All pregnancy services at Westbank Pregnancy & Family Care Center are free and confidential. However, ultrasound services are limited to clients who have received a positive pregnancy test on-site at our center.
Why Choose Westbank Pregnancy & Family Care Center
If you think you might be pregnant, Westbank Pregnancy & Family Care Center can help you determine if you’re pregnant, verify whether the pregnancy is in the right location, and how far along you are via ultrasound. Additionally, our staff will help you understand your options. You don’t have to figure this out alone.
Westbank Pregnancy Center
We are here to help.
If you or someone you love is facing an unexpected pregnancy and are in need of information regarding options, emotional support or resources, we are here to help you. Call (504)227-9090 during our office hours or fill out the contact form and someone will get in touch with you as soon as possible.
