Feeling Pregnant? How to Confirm for Sure

I always start my writing with personal experience. When I first wondered whether I could be pregnant, I felt that flutter in my stomach (and no, it wasn’t a baby… yet!). If you are the same, just excited and a little nervous at the same time. As someone who lived in this virtual world, allow me to take you through this journey.

Those First Tiny Hints

You know that feeling when something just seems to be a bit different? Perhaps you’re lying in bed, counting the days since your last period, or being hit with random waves of exhaustion that even your go-to cup of coffee can’t quell. Here are some signs that had me intrigued — and that you may notice as well:

Your Missed Period

I will never forget how I stared at my calendar, double-checking dates. And while a missed period is usually the first thing that sends our hearts racing, our bodies don’t always follow the same tune. But still, this was what sent me sprinting to the drugstore!

That Unexplainable Exhaustion

You’re not alone if you suddenly dream of long naps at 2 PM (guilty!). This isn’t your run-of-the-mill “I need another cup of coffee” tired — it’s more like “I could nap standing up” fatigue.

The Nausea Rollercoaster

Mislabeled “morning” sickness can occur any time of day. For me, it was technically evening sickness! Some days,  thinking about certain foods made me dash to the bathroom, while other smells became suddenly irresistible.

The Breast Changes

One morning, you might wake up and realize that your favorite bra fits a little tighter than before or that your breasts are tender. I just remember cringing even putting on a T. But the areolas’ tenderness—and even darkening—can be one of those early “something’s up” moments.

Other early symptoms include swollen breasts, feeling extra tired, or even having food cravings or aversions, mild cramping or spotting.

Taking That First Test

I remember taking that first pregnancy test — I was shaking so much I almost dropped it! Here’s what I learned:

• If possible, wait until morning (I know that’s tough!)
• For best results, use your first-morning urine
• No, no, and no →. Set a timer for 10 minutes so those minutes will seem like hours.
• Have a trusted friend in your back pocket for support

When to Take a Pregnancy Test

At least 1-2 weeks after a missed period for the most accurate results. Get tested too soon, and you may get a false negative.

How It Works

Home pregnancy tests work by checking for the presence of a hormone called human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) in your urine, a hormone that’s released during pregnancy.

Follow instructions: Take the test as instructed, typically urinating on a stick or into a cup.

Accuracy:  Home pregnancy tests can be more than 99 percent accurate.

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False Positives/Negatives: Home tests can yield false positives or negatives, especially if they are not used properly, taken too early in an infection, or if someone has certain medical conditions.

Suppose you get a positive home pregnancy test. In that case, it’s time to see a healthcare provider to confirm and get started on prenatal care.

Confirm with a Blood Test

A healthcare provider can perform a blood test that detects hCG levels sooner and more accurately than a urine test.

Blood tests are of two types:

Qualitative hCG Test: Determines if hCG is present (positive/negative).

Quantitative hCG Test: This measures the precise amount of hCG in your blood, which can be used to monitor the progression of the pregnancy.

When to See Your Doctor

After my home test, I was eager to get confirmation from my doctor. They can:

Book your first ultrasound (the waterworks will flow when that heartbeat is heard!)

Build a plan for your pregnancy journey

Taking Care of You Right Now

• As you enter this “maybe” phase, be kind to yourself:
• Answer your body’s call to rest
• Have crackers by your bed (they were my lifesaver!)
• Hydration – I took a water bottle with me everywhere
• Rely on your support network — you don’t have to do this alone

Remember, this journey is yours and yours alone. Whether you’re scared, excited, or something in between, all those feelings are valid. You’re not alone in this—every expectant mother has stood in your shoes, filled with wonder and anticipation.

Also, keep a box of tissues next to you when those two pink lines appear—I know you will need them.