How do you know if you’re pregnant?
The information on this page is intended as a helpful guide only. Always seek out professional medical advice about your specific health situation.
An unexpected pregnancy can come as quite a shock. But before you panic, it’s best to be 100% certain that you are pregnant.
How can you tell if you are pregnant?
There are a couple of ways to work out if you are pregnant. You could use a home pregnancy test or you could get a blood test at a medical clinic.
Home pregnancy tests can be purchased from a chemist or supermarket. Make sure to read the instructions very carefully — if steps aren’t followed correctly, your result won’t be accurate.
Important: If you suspect you’re pregnant, it’s best to visit a doctor or a sexual health clinic. A doctor can conduct a blood or urine test that will accurately determine whether you are pregnant or not.
If you’re unsure about going to your family doctor or you don’t have one, learn more on ‘How can I see a doctor on my own’. It has info on finding a doctor, payment options, and your rights.
You can also visit your local family planning clinic. Sexual Health Clinics are free and confidential.
What are some early signs of pregnancy?
- Missed or ‘late’ period
- Nausea and/or vomiting (commonly called “morning sickness”)
- Sore or larger than normal breasts
- Extreme tiredness
- Sour or metallic taste in your mouth
- Needing to wee more often, particularly at nighttime
- Usual food cravings or suddenly disliking certain foods
I’m definitely pregnant. What happens now?
If you’re 100% sure that you’re pregnant, you have options:
Whatever you decide to do is your choice, and no one else’s. Think carefully about what you want at this moment. Try to connect with who you are as a person, your life values, and the kind of future you want.
Remember: you haven’t done anything wrong. Pregnancy is a normal part of life, and deciding what happens next is entirely up to you.
Where to get help
- Talk with a trusted friend or adult
- If you’re feeling nervous about talking with someone you know, consider talking to a counsellor or psychologist.
- You could also contact Kids Help Line (1800 55 1800) 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
- For medical support, see your doctor or head to your local Sexual Health Clinic for free and confidential advice. Follow the links below to find one near you.
Sexual Health Clinics across Australia
New South Wales
Northern Territory
Queensland
South Australia
Tasmania
Victoria
Western Australia
