Everyone knows that if you miss your period you could be pregnant, but how can you tell before that? There are several things to look for if this is your goal.
There aren't a lot of tests that will accurately predict your pregnancy that early, but it can be done by evaluating your body.
You will need some information first: You will need to know when exactly you are supposed to ovulate and when to expect your menstrual cycle afterwards.
Then a list of symptoms might be helpful.
Here are a few things to look for and do before you expect your period.
Take your temperature: When you ovulate, your body temperature raises and lowers itself to combat hormonal surges.
At the point of ovulation, the temperature is lowered by one or two degrees and afterwards it goes back to normal or in the case of pregnancy, it shoots up one or two degrees.
If you suspect that you are or are trying to get pregnant, taking your temperature and observing any changes or patterns will be your first clue to knowing the truth or being able to achieve your goal.
Presence of Cramping: If you are pregnant, within the first few weeks you might experience some light stomach cramps.
This is akin to period cramps, but is not accompanied by blood.
The cramps are a result of your body preparing to make room for baby.
Your uterus is contracting and expanding so that the egg can more firmly attach itself to the uterine lining.
Spotting or Discharge: Sometimes, when you are on the first day of your menstrual period, you might have a slight pinkness after urination and this is your first clue.
If you aren't expecting your period or are trying to get pregnant, this is one of the common and very early signs of pregnancy.
You might experience pinkish or brown streaks appearing after urination or have a clear or whitish discharge.
If you are between menstrual cycles, have had unprotected sex during your ovulation period and are experiencing this "spotting", you could be pregnant.
Hot Flashes: Hormonal shifts can come and go and they can take your body temperature with it.
If your temperature is elevated you might feel hot and unable to cool off, even in a cold environment.
Sweating during these flashes is common and in women signals one of two things - menopause or pregnancy.
The hot flashes are early signs of pregnancy and menopause, but in pregnancy, they will eventually stop when you body gets used to the surges.
Paying attention to your body is a good idea if you are trying to figure out if you are pregnant or not.
These signs are among the earliest tattlers on a pregnant woman and can be easy to spot if you know yourself.
Tracking your temperature and looking for other early warning signs can be helpful if you need to know as soon as possible or if you are between periods.