TeenHealthFX - Answers - Symptoms Of Pregnancy

Pregnancy / Question
Published: January 17, 2001

Dear TeenHealthFX,

I just became sexually active and I've been feeling really tired with nausea at certain times everyday, last month I only had my period for about 2 days, could these be symptoms of pregnancy?

Signed: Symptoms Of Pregnancy

Dear Symptoms Of Pregnancy,

A normal period lasts around 2-7 days, depending on your menses. If your periods are normally greater than 2 days, and last month it lasted just 2 days, the possibility of pregnancy is concerning. Some women may bleed after becoming pregnant. You didn't mention whether you used any contraception - if you haven't your risk of pregnancy is higher.

Some common side effects to pregnancy are:

Missed period
Breast tenderness
Bloating
Nausea
Fatigue
Increased or decreased appetite
Frequent urination

A teen health center can confirm your pregnancy and go over your options. Your options include abortion, adoption and keeping the child. A counselor at the teen center will be able to discuss your choices with you and refer you to the next appropriate place (i.e., abortion clinic, adoption agency or family planning specialist).

If you decide to have an abortion, the safest time to have the procedure is in your first 12 weeks of pregnancy. The earlier you decide how you are going to handle the situation, the better.

So, make the call to a local teen health center ASAP. If you live in Northern New Jersey, please call the Adolescent/Young Adult Center for Health at 973.889.6350. If you live outside of Northern New Jersey, please call your local teen health center or Planned Parenthood. When making your appointment, let them know you are pregnant. Teen health centers can see teenagers for sexual health reasons without your parent's consent and on a low/no cost basis.

While at the teen health center, the doctor or health educator may discuss other methods of birth control with you to use in addition to condoms, like the pill or Depo-Provera shot. Using a hormonal method of birth control further reduces your risk for pregnancy. Also you and your partner should be examined for STD's. If you are pregnant it is best to know early so that you can have as many options as possible. They will be able to assist to you in any way they can.

Sex is a risky activity with consequences that should be considered before taking part. Please be safe and use safer sex practices.

Good luck to both you and your partner.

Signed: TeenHealthFX