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.

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