Early Signs of Pregnancy and When to Take a Test
Common first signs, how home tests work and what to do after a positive result.
Before you use this guide: This is general educational information, not an individual medical assessment. We do not identify a clinician reviewer on this page, so please confirm personal health decisions with your doctor, midwife or paediatrician.
The most common first sign is a missed period, but some women notice other changes even earlier.
Possible early signs
- A missed or unusually light period
- Nausea, with or without vomiting
- Tender, swollen breasts
- Tiredness
- Passing urine more often
- A heightened sense of smell or food aversions
These signs can also be caused by other things, so they do not confirm pregnancy by themselves.
Taking a home test
Home tests detect the pregnancy hormone hCG in urine. They are most reliable from the first day of a missed period. Testing earlier may give a false negative. Follow the instructions on the box carefully, and use the first urine of the morning if the pack suggests it.
After a positive result
- Contact your doctor or midwife to book your first antenatal appointment.
- Start or continue folic acid.
- Avoid alcohol and smoking.
- Ask your doctor before taking any medicine.
If you have a negative test but your period stays away, repeat the test after a few days or see your doctor.
Trusted resources to read next
These public health resources provide additional information. Guidance can vary by country, so prioritise advice from your own care team and local health service.
- NHS: Pregnancy — Evidence-based information on planning a pregnancy and early care.
- NHS: Trying for a baby — Guidance for people who are planning to conceive.
This content is for general information only and is not medical advice. Every pregnancy and every baby is different. Always talk to your doctor, midwife or paediatrician about your own situation, and seek urgent care if you are worried.