January 2026
by Rebecca Peters
Learn the most common early pregnancy symptoms, how accurate they are, and what to do next. Free, confidential support is available.
Depending on your situation, a late period can feel terrifying. Suddenly, your life and your future may feel uncertain. You may feel alone, unsure, or confused. You may have important people in your life telling you what to do. All of that together is… a lot. We understand. This is big.
Before you make any decisions, it’s important to pause and take a breath. Then, take some time to clearly understand your situation — what symptoms you’re noticing, how to confirm a pregnancy, how to sort through all your feelings, and where to find support.
You are not alone. This blog was written for you.
Early Pregnancy Symptoms
Some women experience many pregnancy symptoms, and others may experience only one or two. Common early signs include:
- a missed period
- nausea or vomiting
- breast tenderness or enlargement
- frequent urination
- feeling physically tired
Some women have several of these symptoms, while others experience very few or none at all. Having one or more of these signs does not automatically mean you are pregnant.
How to Confirm a Pregnancy
If you haven’t taken a pregnancy test yet, that’s usually the best first step. You can take a pregnancy test at home, go to a pregnancy care centre (they have free tests), or see a doctor. A urine pregnancy test is typically accurate after the first missed period.
If you are still feeling unsure, a blood test can also confirm a pregnancy. An ultrasound is the best way to determine how far along a pregnancy is and confirm that it is developing in the uterus.
If a test is negative but your period doesn’t start or symptoms continue, it’s okay to test again or talk with a healthcare provider.
What to Do If You’re Feeling Anxious or Unsure
Many of us feel anxious or unsure when we don’t have all the information. When nothing is clear and we don’t know what to do next, thoughts can become jumbled and anxiety can take over — like a tightness in your stomach or the urge to find a distraction.
A pregnancy can’t be ignored, but a decision doesn’t need to be rushed either. There are two things you can do that will help: (1) sort through your thoughts and feelings, and (2) get accurate information and support.
Writing out what you’re thinking and feeling can help bring clarity. It’s often easier to see things more clearly when they’re on paper instead of spinning around in your head. Here are some good questions to get you started:
- What are the different things I’m feeling, the good and the difficult?
- What do I feel most anxious about right now?
- What am I saying to myself?
- Are these thoughts actually true?
That last question matters because what we say to ourselves isn’t always true. Anxiety often amplifies our worst fears. Accurate information and supportive conversations can help quiet those fears.
Where to Get Information About Pregnancy and Your Options
A pregnancy care centre is a safe and confidential place where you can ask questions, get medically accurate information about pregnancy and your options, and talk through what you’re experiencing.
Some centres accept walk-ins, but it’s usually best to make an appointment. There is no cost, and you can return for additional appointments if you have more questions or just need to talk to someone.
You may also find it helpful to explore our Pregnancy Options Guide, which goes through your options and has journalling questions.
How to Find a Pregnancy Care Centre or Online Support
You can find support on the Pregnancy Care Canada website. Select “Looking for Help” and then “Read More” under “Find a Pregnancy Care Centre or Online Support.”
Although it might feel awkward at first, meeting with someone in person can be helpful and feel comforting. Online support is also available if there isn’t a centre near you.
The most important thing is getting the accurate information and being able to talk to someone about what’s going on.
When to Reach Out for Support
If you’re ready, reaching out now can help you feel less alone. You don’t have to figure this out by yourself. Support is available, and it’s okay to take this one step at a time.