Facing the possibility of pregnancy can bring a mix of emotions: uncertainty, excitement or even fear. If you think you might be pregnant, learning to recognize the early signs and symptoms of pregnancy can help you take the next step with confidence.
TLC of Hastings offers free pregnancy tests, ultrasounds, and compassionate support to help you understand what’s happening with your body and your options.
Summary
This post explains the most common early pregnancy symptoms, what they might mean and when to take a test. If you think you could be pregnant, TLC provides free, confidential pregnancy testing and guidance to help you plan your next step.
On this page
- ▾ Early Signs of Pregnancy
- ▾ When to Take a Pregnancy Test
- ▾ What to Do if Your Test Is Positive
- ▾ How TLC Can Help
- ▾ Frequently Asked Questions
Early Signs of Pregnancy
Every woman’s experience is unique, but here are some of the most common early symptoms that may indicate pregnancy:
- Missed period – One of the most noticeable early signs
- Breast tenderness or swelling – Caused by hormonal changes
- Fatigue – Feeling unusually tired as your body begins producing more progesterone
- Nausea or “morning sickness” – Can happen at any time of day, even just a few weeks after conception
- Frequent urination – Increased blood flow to the kidneys, making you need to go more often
- Mood swings – Emotional highs and lows are common as your hormones shift.
- Light spotting or mild cramping – Sometimes happens when the fertilized egg implants in the uterus.
Not everyone experiences all of these symptoms, but if you’ve noticed several, it may be time to take a pregnancy test.
When to Take a Pregnancy Test
For the most accurate results, wait until at least one day after your missed period.
At TLC of Hastings, our free, lab-quality pregnancy tests are accurate and confidential. Results are available quickly, and our caring staff can answer your questions right away.
What to Do if Your Test Is Positive
If your pregnancy test is positive, the next step is to confirm it with an ultrasound. TLC offers limited obstetrical ultrasounds to determine how far along you are and whether the pregnancy is viable. Our trained medical team will walk you through the results and explain your options clearly and compassionately.
How TLC Can Help
Use this standard support language block, consistent across TLC blog posts:
- Free, lab-quality pregnancy tests and ultrasounds
- Compassionate, non-judgmental counseling
- Education about all your options: parenting, adoption, and abortion
- Parenting classes, Baby Boutique, and fatherhood programs
- Support after miscarriage or abortion
📞 Call: 651-437-4200
📱 Text: 651-347-1889
📅 Schedule a Free Appointment
Frequently Asked Questions
When do pregnancy symptoms usually start?
Most early symptoms begin within 2–3 weeks after conception, though some may appear sooner or later depending on your body.
Can I have pregnancy symptoms but still test negative?
Yes. Hormone levels vary. If your test is negative but you still suspect pregnancy, wait a few days and test again; or come to TLC for a free, lab-quality test.
Is spotting normal in early pregnancy?
Light spotting can happen with implantation, but heavy bleeding or severe pain should always be checked by a healthcare professional.