--- title: Pregnancy FAQs | Explore Options in a Safe Space description: With an unexpected pregnancy comes plenty of unanswered questions. Check out our helpful Frequently Asked Questions list. --- [Skip to Content](https://www.branchespfrc.org/pregnancy-faqs#main-content) - [Call or Text 24/7 | (316) 975-0069](tel:%20+13169750069) [![Branches - Full Color](https://www.branchespfrc.org/hubfs/Branches%20-%20Full%20Color.png)](https://www.branchespfrc.org?hsLang=en) - Show submenu for Services Services - [Text Our Nurses](https://www.branchespfrc.org/nurse-chat) - [Testing & Ultrasounds](https://www.branchespfrc.org/free-pregnancy-testing-ultrasounds) - [Pre-Abortion Assessment](https://www.branchespfrc.org/abortion) - [Abortion Pill Reversal](https://www.branchespfrc.org/abortion-pill-reversal) - [Parenting Services](https://www.branchespfrc.org/parenting-classes-resources) - [Counseling Services](https://www.branchespfrc.org/peer-counseling-services) - Show submenu for FAQs FAQs - [First Appointment Expectations](https://www.branchespfrc.org/what-to-expect) - [About Pregnancy](https://www.branchespfrc.org/pregnancy-faqs) - [About Abortion](https://www.branchespfrc.org/abortion-faqs) - [About the Abortion Pill](https://www.branchespfrc.org/abortion-pill-faqs) - [About STI/STDs](https://www.branchespfrc.org/abortion-pill-faqs) - [Resources](https://www.branchespfrc.org/resources) - [Helpful Advice](https://www.branchespfrc.org/helpful-advice) - [Español](https://www.branchespfrc.org/apoyo-embarazo) [Make Appointment](https://www.branchespfrc.org/make-appointment?hsLang=en) Show submenu for Services Services [Text Our Nurses](https://www.branchespfrc.org/nurse-chat) [Testing & Ultrasounds](https://www.branchespfrc.org/free-pregnancy-testing-ultrasounds) [Pre-Abortion Assessment](https://www.branchespfrc.org/abortion) [Abortion Pill Reversal](https://www.branchespfrc.org/abortion-pill-reversal) [Parenting Services](https://www.branchespfrc.org/parenting-classes-resources) [Counseling Services](https://www.branchespfrc.org/peer-counseling-services) Show submenu for FAQs FAQs [First Appointment Expectations](https://www.branchespfrc.org/what-to-expect) [About Pregnancy](https://www.branchespfrc.org/pregnancy-faqs) [About Abortion](https://www.branchespfrc.org/abortion-faqs) [About the Abortion Pill](https://www.branchespfrc.org/abortion-pill-faqs) [About STI/STDs](https://www.branchespfrc.org/abortion-pill-faqs) [Resources](https://www.branchespfrc.org/resources) [Helpful Advice](https://www.branchespfrc.org/helpful-advice) [Español](https://www.branchespfrc.org/apoyo-embarazo) [Make Appointment](https://www.branchespfrc.org/make-appointment?hsLang=en) ###### Help for Pregnancy Questions # Pregnancy FAQs With an unexpected pregnancy comes plenty of unanswered questions. Check out our helpful frequently asked questions list. WHEN YOU NEED ANSWERS FAST #### Our Nurses Are Here To Help > **Facing an unplanned pregnancy?** Text your questions to our nurses 24/7 at [(316) 975-0069.](sms:+13169750069)It's free and we answer in minutes! ## Am I Pregnant? - When Do Pregnancy Symptoms Start? ### When Do Pregnancy Symptoms Start? Most people notice early signs **about 1–2 weeks after conception**, but the exact timing can vary from person to person. After a fertilized egg sticks to the uterus (called implantation, usually 6–12 days after conception), the body makes a hormone named hCG. As hCG levels rise, you might feel things like tiredness, sore breasts, mild cramping, or queasiness. These early changes often show up around when your next period would be due (about two weeks after conception), though some may feel them a bit sooner or later.   Citation: https://www.nichd.nih.gov/health/topics/pregnancy/conditioninfo/signs - Is Diarrhea A Sign Of Pregnancy? ### Is Diarrhea A Sign Of Pregnancy? **Diarrhea can occur in early pregnancy, but it isn’t a common or reliable first sign.** After the fertilized egg attaches to the uterus (about 6–12 days after conception), your body makes more hCG and progesterone. These hormones can change how fast food moves through your intestines. If things move too fast, you might get looser stools or diarrhea. But diarrhea is less common than other early signs like tiredness, nausea, or sore breasts, and many other factors—like diet or mild infections—can cause it. Citation: https://www.verywellhealth.com/diarrhea-during-pregnancy-8365031 - Is Constipation A Sign Of Pregnancy? ### Is Constipation A Sign Of Pregnancy? **Constipation can occur in early pregnancy due to hormonal changes slowing digestion, but it’s not a definitive sign.** After the embryo embeds in the uterus (about 6–12 days after conception), rising progesterone relaxes muscles, including those in the gut. This makes food move more slowly and lets more water leave the stool, so it can become hard and difficult to pass. While many pregnant people notice constipation early on, it also happens for lots of other reasons, so it isn’t a reliable pregnancy indicator. Citation: https://www.nhs.uk/pregnancy/trying-for-a-baby/signs-and-symptoms-of-pregnancy/ - When Do Pregnancy Cravings Start? ### When Do Pregnancy Cravings Start? Food cravings often begin **around weeks 10–14 of pregnancy**, but this timing can vary widely. As pregnancy hormones rise, they affect your hunger signals and your sense of taste and smell. This shift usually happens when your body makes more estrogen and progesterone—often around the end of the first trimester (about 10–14 weeks). Some people notice cravings a bit earlier or later, since everyone’s body responds differently.   Citation: https://www.nhs.uk/pregnancy/trying-for-a-baby/signs-and-symptoms-of-pregnancy/ - When Do You Start Showing Pregnancy? ### When Do You Start Showing Pregnancy? Most people start to show **around 12–16 weeks of pregnancy**, though it varies by body shape and pregnancy history. After about 12 weeks, your uterus (womb) grows enough to push your stomach forward and make a bump. How soon this happens depends on your body shape, muscle strength, and whether you’ve been pregnant before. People with strong stomach muscles or extra belly fat might show later, while those on a second (or later) pregnancy often show a bit earlier.   Citation: https://www.verywellhealth.com/pregnant-belly-5116657 - When Does Nausea Start In Pregnancy? ### When Does Nausea Start In Pregnancy? Nausea usually starts **around 4–6 weeks into pregnancy**, but timing can vary from person to person. After the embryo attaches (about 6–12 days after fertilization), your body ramps up pregnancy hormones like hCG and progesterone. These hormones can irritate your stomach and slow digestion, which may make you feel queasy. Most people notice this “morning sickness” beginning around 4–6 weeks after their last period, with symptoms often peaking around week 9. Some may feel it a bit earlier or later, since everyone’s hormone levels and sensitivity differ.   Citation: https://www.nhs.uk/start-for-life/pregnancy/morning-sickness/ - Can Precum Cause Pregnancy? ### Can Precum Cause Pregnancy? **Yes. Pre-ejaculatory fluid can pick up sperm left in the urethra and, though unlikely, may lead to pregnancy.** Pre-ejaculatory fluid is made by glands to clear and moisten the urethra before ejaculation. It normally has no sperm, but if sperm from a recent ejaculation stays behind, it can mix in. Even a tiny amount of sperm in that fluid can meet an egg and cause pregnancy.   Citation: U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), "Mifeprex (mifepristone) Information," updated 2023, detailing the regimen and approved use. ## Pregnancy Tests - How Soon Can You Take A Pregnancy Test? ### How Soon Can You Take A Pregnancy Test? You can test with most home kits on **the day your period is due; some sensitive tests work up to 6 days before that.** Pregnancy tests look for a hormone called hCG, which your body makes after the fertilized egg sticks to the uterus (usually 6–12 days after the egg and sperm meet). As hCG builds up, it shows up in your urine at levels most tests catch by the day your period is due—about two weeks after the egg and sperm meet. Some tests can pick up lower hCG levels up to 6 days before your missed period. Citation: Source: https://womenshealth.gov/sites/default/files/documents/fact-sheet-pregnancy-tests.pdf - How Accurate Are Pregnancy Tests? ### How Accurate Are Pregnancy Tests? **Most home pregnancy tests are over 99% accurate** when used on or after the day your period is due. Pregnancy tests work by spotting hCG, a hormone your body makes after an embryo attaches to the uterus (usually 6–12 days after fertilization). Lab tests and quality over-the-counter kits claim over 99% accuracy on the day your period is expected. However, testing too early can give false negatives because hCG levels might still be too low to detect. False positives are rare but can happen with certain medications or medical conditions that raise hCG. Timing and following the instructions closely matter most for a reliable result.   Citation: https://womenshealth.gov/a-z-topics/pregnancy-tests - Can Twins Cause A False Negative Pregnancy Test? ### Can Twins Cause A False Negative Pregnancy Test? **No**. **Twins raise hCG levels, making a positive result more likely**, not causing a false negative. When you’re pregnant with twins, your body makes extra hCG—a hormone home tests look for in urine. Twins usually boost hCG well above the level needed for a positive result. False negatives happen if hCG is too low (for example, testing too early or with very diluted urine). Since twins increase hCG, they don’t lead to false negatives but often give a clearer positive result.   Citation: https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/body/22489-human-chorionic-gonadotropin - Do Pregnancy Tests Expire? ### Do Pregnancy Tests Expire? **Pregnancy tests have expiration dates. Using an expired test can lead to inaccurate results.** Pregnancy tests use special chemicals (antibodies) that bind to hCG in your urine to show a line or symbol. Over time, those chemicals can break down or lose strength, so an expired test might not pick up hCG even if you’re pregnant—or less commonly, it could show a faint line by mistake. You’ll find the expiration date printed on the test’s box or foil wrapper; after that date, the test’s accuracy isn’t guaranteed.   Citation: https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/getting-pregnant/in-depth/home-pregnancy-tests/art-20047940 - Can A Pregnancy Test Be Wrong? ### Can A Pregnancy Test Be Wrong? **Yes.** Home pregnancy tests can sometimes be wrong, **false negatives if hCG is low or rare false positives from certain medications or conditions.** Pregnancy tests work by detecting hCG, a hormone your body makes after an embryo attaches to the uterus (around 6–12 days after fertilization). If you test too early or your urine is very diluted, hCG levels may be too low to show up, causing a false negative. False positives are uncommon but can happen if you’re taking hCG-containing medications (like some fertility drugs) or have certain medical conditions that raise hCG.   Citation: https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/getting-pregnant/in-depth/home-pregnancy-tests/art-20047940 ## Early Pregnancy - How Many Weeks Is A Pregnancy? ### How Many Weeks Is A Pregnancy? Full-term pregnancy is **about 40 weeks** from the first day of your last period (about 38 weeks from conception). Because it’s hard to know exactly when you became pregnant, doctors start counting from the first day of your last menstrual period. That makes a full pregnancy about 40 weeks long. Conception usually happens around week 2, so it’s about 38 weeks from the moment sperm meets egg. Pregnancy is split into three parts: weeks 1–13 (first trimester), weeks 14–27 (second), and weeks 28–40 (third). - When Does Ectopic Pregnancy Pain Start? ### When Does Ectopic Pregnancy Pain Start? Ectopic pregnancy pain usually starts **around 6–8 weeks of gestation**, but it can vary depending on where the embryo implants. When a fertilized egg implants outside the uterus—most often in a fallopian tube—that tube can’t stretch well as the embryo grows. As the embryo gets bigger (around 6–8 weeks from your last period), you may feel a sharp or dull ache on one side of your lower belly. Because everyone’s body and implantation spot differ, some people notice pain a bit earlier or later, often along with light spotting.   Citation: https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/conditions-and-diseases/ectopic-pregnancy - How Long Does Spotting Last In Early Pregnancy? ### How Long Does Spotting Last In Early Pregnancy? Spotting in early pregnancy usually lasts **1–3 days**, but can range from a few hours to up to a week. Spotting often happens around the time the embryo embeds itself in the womb lining, about 6–12 days after fertilization. This light bleeding comes from small blood vessels in the uterus and usually shows up as pink or brown discharge. For most people, it lasts about one to three days, but some may see a little spotting for just a few hours or up to a week. Because it’s light and brief, it’s different from a normal period flow.   Citation: https://www.nichd.nih.gov/health/topics/factsheets/menstruation - Can You Have Sex During Pregnancy? ### Can You Have Sex During Pregnancy? **Yes, sex is safe in most healthy pregnancies**, since the baby is cushioned and protected inside the uterus. During pregnancy, the baby floats in fluid inside a strong amniotic sac, and a thick mucus plug seals the cervix to keep out germs. Intercourse can’t reach or hurt the baby or sac. However, if the placenta lies low (placenta previa), the amniotic sac has ruptured (water has broken), or there’s a risk of early labor, sex can cause bleeding or infection and isn’t safe in those situations. - What Does The First Trimester Feel Like? ### What Does The First Trimester Feel Like? **Fatigue, nausea, breast tenderness, and mood changes are common in the first trimester, though experiences vary.** During the first trimester (weeks 1–13), rising pregnancy hormones can make you feel very tired and queasy. You may notice your breasts swell and feel sore, need to pee more often, or feel bloated. Mood swings—feeling happy one moment and upset the next—are normal, too. All these changes happen because your body is working hard to grow and nourish the embryo. Everyone’s symptoms are a bit different, so you might have some symptoms more strongly and others hardly at all. ## Experiencing An Unexpected Pregnancy? At Branches, we provide free lab-quality [pregnancy tests](https://www.branchespfrc.org/pregnancy-testing-butler-ks?hsLang=en), [ultrasounds](https://www.branchespfrc.org/free-ultrasounds-butler-county-ks?hsLang=en), and [information on abortion options](https://www.branchespfrc.org/abortion?hsLang=en), so you can make informed decisions with confidence. > Navigating pregnancy can feel overwhelming, but you're not alone. **Text your questions to our nurses** at [(316) 975-0069](sms:+13169750069) or request an appointment. ![Branches - Symbol](https://www.branchespfrc.org/hs-fs/hubfs/Branches%20-%20Symbol.png?width=150&height=187&name=Branches%20-%20Symbol.png) ###### **El Dorado Center** 214 W Central Ave **[Get Directions](https://www.google.com/maps/place/Branches+Pregnancy+and+Family+Centers/@37.8176553,-96.8543636,17z/data=!3m2!4b1!5s0x87bbb3741836eb83:0x313ac7af14ec9370!4m6!3m5!1s0x87bbb376a57adf25:0xe71369f917b93a77!8m2!3d37.8176511!4d-96.8517887!16s%2Fg%2F11cnq5938q?entry=tts&g_ep=EgoyMDI1MTAwOC4wIPu8ASoASAFQAw%3D%3D&skid=f0d6ff2d-ac86-4ef5-93c8-49de48c74c90)** **Office** | [(316) 322-0070](tel:%20+13163220070) **Mon - Thurs:** 9am - 3pm (Thurs. 3pm - 6pm After Hours by Appointment Only) **Friday:** Closed ###### **Augusta Center** 518 State St. **[Get Directions](https://www.google.com/maps/place/Branches+Pregnancy+and+Family+Center/@35.4711122,-94.7635273,6z/data=!4m7!3m6!1s0x87ba516f474aed1d:0xaaa09669fc48d36b!8m2!3d37.676935!4d-96.9787714!15sCiFicmFuY2hlcyBwcmVnbmFuY3kgY2VudGVyIGF1Z3VzdGGSARdub25fcHJvZml0X29yZ2FuaXphdGlvbuABAA!16s%2Fg%2F1tpc8h3n?entry=tts&g_ep=EgoyMDI1MTAwOC4wIPu8ASoASAFQAw%3D%3D&skid=1db63a0c-eb0e-4e22-ade4-d21ffdb145d1)** **Office** | [(316) 775-9372](tel:%20+13167759372) **Mon:** 10am - 4pm (Tuesday appointments opening soon) **Tues-Fri:** Closed ###### **Here For You** Our Center provides the care you need so you can make the best decision for yourself. 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All Rights Reserved. - [Privacy Policy](https://www.branchespfrc.org/privacy-policy) ```json { "@context" : "https://schema.org", "@type" : "FAQPage", "about" : { "@type" : "Service", "name" : "Pregnancy Testing & Support", "url" : "https://www.branchespfrc.org/pregnancy-testing-butler-ks" }, "description" : "Answers to common questions about early pregnancy symptoms, testing, spotting, ectopic pregnancy, and what to expect in the first trimester, plus where to get free pregnancy tests, ultrasounds, and support.", "inLanguage" : "en", "isPartOf" : { "@type" : "Website", "name" : "Branches Pregnancy and Family Center", "url" : "https://www.branchespfrc.org/" }, "mainEntity" : [ { "@type" : "Question", "acceptedAnswer" : { "@type" : "Answer", "text" : "Many people notice early pregnancy symptoms about 1–2 weeks after conception, around the time a period is due. After the fertilized egg implants in the uterus, rising hCG levels can cause fatigue, breast soreness, mild cramps, and queasiness. Timing varies from person to person." }, "name" : "When do pregnancy symptoms start?" }, { "@type" : "Question", "acceptedAnswer" : { "@type" : "Answer", "text" : "Diarrhea can happen in early pregnancy because hormone changes affect digestion, but it is not a common or reliable first sign of pregnancy. Many other things like diet changes, infections, or medications can also cause loose stools." }, "name" : "Is diarrhea a sign of pregnancy?" }, { "@type" : "Question", "acceptedAnswer" : { "@type" : "Answer", "text" : "Constipation is fairly common in early pregnancy because progesterone relaxes muscles and slows digestion, which lets more water be absorbed from stool. However, constipation also has many other causes, so it is not a definite sign on its own." }, "name" : "Is constipation a sign of pregnancy?" }, { "@type" : "Question", "acceptedAnswer" : { "@type" : "Answer", "text" : "Food cravings often begin around 10–14 weeks of pregnancy, near the end of the first trimester, as hormones affect appetite and senses of taste and smell. Some people notice cravings earlier or later, and some never have strong cravings at all." }, "name" : "When do pregnancy cravings start?" }, { "@type" : "Question", "acceptedAnswer" : { "@type" : "Answer", "text" : "Many people start to show a pregnancy bump between 12–16 weeks, when the uterus grows large enough to push the abdomen forward. Body type, muscle tone, and previous pregnancies all affect how early a bump becomes visible." }, "name" : "When do you start showing pregnancy?" }, { "@type" : "Question", "acceptedAnswer" : { "@type" : "Answer", "text" : "Nausea, often called morning sickness, usually starts around 4–6 weeks of pregnancy as hCG and progesterone levels rise. Symptoms often peak around week 9 and may ease as the second trimester begins, though timing and severity vary widely." }, "name" : "When does nausea start in pregnancy?" }, { "@type" : "Question", "acceptedAnswer" : { "@type" : "Answer", "text" : "Yes. Pre-ejaculate (precum) itself does not usually contain sperm, but it can pick up sperm left in the urethra from a recent ejaculation. Even a small amount of sperm can potentially fertilize an egg, so pregnancy is possible, though less likely than with full ejaculation." }, "name" : "Can precum cause pregnancy?" }, { "@type" : "Question", "acceptedAnswer" : { "@type" : "Answer", "text" : "Most home pregnancy tests are designed to be used on the day your period is due, about two weeks after conception. Some extra-sensitive tests may detect pregnancy up to six days before a missed period, but testing closer to the expected period gives more reliable results. Branches offers free pregnancy tests if you want in-person confirmation." }, "name" : "How soon can you take a pregnancy test?" }, { "@type" : "Question", "acceptedAnswer" : { "@type" : "Answer", "text" : "When used on or after the day a period is due and according to instructions, most home pregnancy tests are over 99% accurate. Testing too early or using very diluted urine can lead to false negatives because hCG levels may be too low to detect. False positives are rare and usually related to certain medications or medical conditions." }, "name" : "How accurate are pregnancy tests?" }, { "@type" : "Question", "acceptedAnswer" : { "@type" : "Answer", "text" : "No. Twins generally increase hCG levels, which makes a positive result more likely, not less. False negatives are more often caused by testing too early, very diluted urine, or not following the test directions closely." }, "name" : "Can twins cause a false negative pregnancy test?" }, { "@type" : "Question", "acceptedAnswer" : { "@type" : "Answer", "text" : "Yes. Pregnancy tests have expiration dates because the chemicals that detect hCG break down over time. Using an expired test can reduce accuracy and may lead to incorrect results. Always check the date on the box or wrapper before using a test." }, "name" : "Do pregnancy tests expire?" }, { "@type" : "Question", "acceptedAnswer" : { "@type" : "Answer", "text" : "Home pregnancy tests can sometimes be wrong. False negatives are more common and usually happen if you test too early or your urine is too diluted for hCG to register. False positives are uncommon, but can occur with certain fertility medications or medical conditions that raise hCG. If you are unsure, repeat the test or get a free test and ultrasound at a clinic like Branches." }, "name" : "Can a pregnancy test be wrong?" }, { "@type" : "Question", "acceptedAnswer" : { "@type" : "Answer", "text" : "A full-term pregnancy is about 40 weeks from the first day of your last menstrual period, or roughly 38 weeks from conception. Pregnancy is typically divided into three trimesters: weeks 1–13, 14–27, and 28–40." }, "name" : "How many weeks is a pregnancy?" }, { "@type" : "Question", "acceptedAnswer" : { "@type" : "Answer", "text" : "Pain from an ectopic pregnancy often starts around 6–8 weeks of gestation, but timing can vary. It may feel like sharp or dull pain on one side of the lower abdomen and can be accompanied by light spotting. Ectopic pregnancy is a medical emergency; anyone with severe pain, dizziness, or heavy bleeding should seek immediate medical care." }, "name" : "When does ectopic pregnancy pain start?" }, { "@type" : "Question", "acceptedAnswer" : { "@type" : "Answer", "text" : "Light spotting in early pregnancy often lasts 1–3 days and is commonly linked to implantation, when the embryo attaches to the uterine lining. Some people may notice spotting for only a few hours or up to a week. It is usually lighter than a normal period. Any heavy bleeding or strong pain should be checked by a medical provider." }, "name" : "How long does spotting last in early pregnancy?" }, { "@type" : "Question", "acceptedAnswer" : { "@type" : "Answer", "text" : "In most healthy pregnancies, sex is considered safe because the baby is protected in the uterus by the amniotic sac and a mucus plug in the cervix. However, sex may not be recommended in certain situations, such as placenta previa, ruptured membranes, or risk of preterm labor. A healthcare provider can give guidance for your specific pregnancy." }, "name" : "Can you have sex during pregnancy?" }, { "@type" : "Question", "acceptedAnswer" : { "@type" : "Answer", "text" : "The first trimester (weeks 1–13) often includes fatigue, nausea, breast tenderness, more frequent urination, bloating, and mood swings as hormone levels rise and the body adjusts to pregnancy. Every pregnancy is different, so some people have strong symptoms while others have very few. If you think you might be pregnant, Branches offers free pregnancy tests, ultrasounds, and support as you process your next steps." }, "name" : "What does the first trimester feel like?" } ], "name" : "Pregnancy FAQs", "relatedLink" : [ "https://www.branchespfrc.org/pregnancy-testing-butler-ks", "https://www.branchespfrc.org/free-ultrasounds-butler-county-ks", "https://www.branchespfrc.org/parenting-classes-resources", "https://www.branchespfrc.org/peer-counseling-services" ], "url" : "https://www.branchespfrc.org/pregnancy-faqs" } ```