Am I pregnant?

At the very latest when their period doesn't come at the expected time, many women ask themselves: "Am I pregnant?" In fact, there are various early signs that may indicate pregnancy.

Important to know: Every woman and every pregnancy is unique. Symptoms may appear early, late, or not at all. And they can vary from pregnancy to pregnancy.

The most common early signs of pregnancy include the following symptoms, among others:

All symptoms of pregnancy are triggered by fertilization and the release of various hormones. Most of these symptoms are completely normal and are no cause for concern. However, you should pay close attention to your body—especially your abdomen—during this time. If you notice anything unusual or feel uncertain, be sure to talk to your gynecologist or a midwife.

No. Many of the symptoms mentioned can also have other causes, such as stress, hormonal fluctuations, or an upcoming period. Symptoms alone are not definitive proof of pregnancy.

If you’re unsure or experience unusual symptoms, it’s always a good idea to seek medical advice.

You can purchase a pregnancy test over the counter at pharmacies or drugstores. You can easily take the test at home: 

• Hold the test stick under the urine stream or
• collect urine in a clean cup and dip the test into it.

After a few minutes, the result will appear in the viewing window. 

The test measures the hormone hCG (human chorionic gonadotropin) in the urine. This hormone is produced after the fertilized egg implants in the uterus and continues to rise steadily during the first weeks of pregnancy.

The hCG hormone rises sharply after conception. It can be detected in urine as early as the 10th day after fertilization of the egg.

The most reliable time to take a test is on the first day after a missed period. 

If the test is negative, you are probably not pregnant. However, it’s also possible that the hCG level wasn’t high enough yet. To be on the safe side, you should repeat the test a few days later if symptoms suggest a possible pregnancy.

A positive test result should be confirmed by a gynecologist. The examination to confirm the pregnancy should take place as soon as possible after a missed period. At your doctor’s office, you will receive further information, support, and advice on how to proceed. Midwives can also serve as points of contact during this early stage.