Family Planning Plus

While the symptoms you describe are pregnancy symptoms, they are also signs that your period may be on its way. The only way to know if you are pregnant is to take a pregnancy test. If you miss your next period by a week or more, have a test done (either at home or at a clinic). If you live close to one of our offices, feel free to call us for an appointment. If your test is negative, repeat the test every two weeks until you either have a normal period or a positive test result.

If you do not wish to be pregnant, please don’t continue to have unprotected sex. Either abstain from sex or use a reliable method of birth control. If you do get your period, please call the Family Planning or Planned Parenthood office closest to you to discuss your contraceptive options.

If you are planning a pregnancy, you can help ensure a positive outcome by following the tips below:

• Schedule a pre-pregnancy appointment with your doctor.  Let your doctor know you are planning a pregnancy.  Your doctor will review your family health history, be sure you have the proper immunizations, review your medications, schedule any needed tests, and discuss your present health behaviors/lifestyle and recommend changes.
• Begin taking a daily multivitamin with 400 mcg of folic acid ( a B vitamin that prevents birth defects of the brain and spine).
• Quit smoking and avoid second-hand smoke.
• Avoid alcoholic beverages.
• Stop using street drugs, and check with a doctor before using prescription or over-the-counter medications (some medications are not safe to use during pregnancy).
• Eat healthfully and maintain a healthy weight.
• Be sure to get regular preventive medical care.
• Reduce the amount of stress in your life (if possible).
• Get regular exercise.  Walking, swimming, stretching, and housework are all good exercise choices before and during pregnancy.

Good luck!