Family Planning Plus

It is doubtful that you would be having pregnancy symptoms so soon. However, each pregnancy is different and each woman may experience different symptoms or no symptoms at all. 

Early pregnancy symptoms include the following: implantation bleeding (many women do not experience this but when it occurs, it consists of spotting and cramping anywhere from 6 to 12 days after conception); delayed or missed period (if bleeding occurs, it is usually lighter than a regular period); swollen and tender breasts (1-2 weeks after conception); fatigue (as early as one week after conception); backaches; headaches; frequent urination (6-8 weeks after conception); and nausea or morning sickness.  Usually, pregnant women first experience nausea anywhere from 2-8 weeks after conception, while others never get nauseous. Certainly, pregnancy cannot be ruled out until you are tested.   Wait until your next period.  If you miss your period by a week or more, take a pregnancy test.  If negative, repeat the test every two weeks until you have a normal period or a positive test result.

If you are planning a pregnancy, the following tips can help ensure a positive pregnancy outcome.

• 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).
• If you smoke, quit and avoid second-hand smoke.
• Avoid alcoholic beverages.
• If you use street drugs, stop using them, 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!