What are the early signs of pregnancy? I just missed my period.

Many things can cause a period to be late -- pregnancy is certainly one, as is worrying about being pregnant (stress). There are several symptoms that happen frequently in early pregnancy, but it is important to keep in mind that these things can occur even if you are not pregnant and that you can be pregnant without having any signs or symptoms.

Often the first thing a woman notices, even before she realizes her period is late, is breast tenderness. The breasts may be larger, and the areola surrounding the nipple may be both larger and darker. Also, fatigue is very common -- you may be tired even after eight hours of sleep. Some women will feel queasy off and on throughout the day or may even vomit.

If you think you may be pregnant, do a pregnancy test. Most of the home tests currently on the market are 99 percent accurate. Tests like First Response can detect pregnancy as early as the first day of a missed period. If a home test is negative but you are still worried about being pregnant, see your doctor for an exam and a blood pregnancy test. If you are pregnant, see your doctor as soon as possible to initiate care. And if you are not pregnant and do not want to be pregnant, make an appointment with your doctor to discuss contraception; don't worry yourself needlessly by having unprotected intercourse!