Your menstrual cycle is unique. For some women, a regular period is every 28 days. For others, their cycle is every 35 days. Sometimes, depending on circumstances, your period can fluctuate from one month to the next.

If you’ve recently been sexually active and your period is now late, it may be time to take a pregnancy test. A missed menstrual period is usually the first sign of pregnancy. However, there can be other reasons your cycle has changed.

Your first step is to come to HopePlace. We offer free and confidential pregnancy testing. A peer consultant talks with you to determine if now is the right time to test and walks you through the results.

Make an appointment for free pregnancy testing today. You’re safe here.

Are You Experiencing Other Signs of Pregnancy?

Every woman experiences pregnancy differently. You could feel all of the symptoms immediately or experience none for several weeks or months.

A late period is one of the first signs of pregnancy, but there are others. Here’s a list of the more common symptoms:

• Tender, swollen breasts.
• Nausea, with or without vomiting.
• Increased urination.
• Fatigue.
• Moodiness.

Can I Take a Home Pregnancy Test?

Over-the-counter pregnancy tests are accurate, but some are more sensitive than others. If you track your period regularly and are confident you are late, then now is a good time to test.

It’s important to follow these steps so you don’t get the wrong result:

• Check the expiration date.
• Read the instructions thoroughly before testing.
• Test in the morning when your urine is most concentrated.
• Wait the recommended amount of time before checking the results.
• Retest in 3 to 5 days to verify the results.

Is There a Possibility I’m Not Pregnant?

According to experts, there are other reasons for an irregular period. Such things as stress, eating disorders, rapid weight loss, or too much exercise can change your menstrual cycle.

Certain complications, such as polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) or pelvic inflammatory disease (PID), can also cause fluctuations.

Additionally, miscarriages are more common than you might think. It’s possible to get a positive pregnancy test but no longer be pregnant. Some research suggests the number of miscarriages could be as high as 30% of all pregnancies because many women miscarry before they realize they’re pregnant.

How Do I Find Out If I Miscarried?

A positive pregnancy test only reveals the possibility of pregnancy. An ultrasound confirms if your pregnancy is developing or if you’ve miscarried.

At HopePlace, we offer free, limited ultrasound referrals to help you get the information you need.

Schedule Your Appointment Today

The possibility of an unexpected pregnancy is nerve-wracking. Get peace of mind by scheduling an appointment at HopePlace today.

You can also call us at (870) 423-6811. We’re here for you.