When Am I Most Likely to Get Pregnant?
First Care is here for you if you have questions about pregnancy, fertility, or health. We provide confidential, free services, including lab-quality pregnancy testing and comprehensive information that will offer the reassurance you need.
Schedule your appointment today to get the clarity you’re searching for, and keep reading to learn why timing is crucial to getting pregnant.
Understanding Ovulation and Fertility
You are most likely to be pregnant when sperm is present in the fallopian tubes at the same time that ovulation occurs. Ovulation is when an ovary releases an egg, which can survive for about 12–24 hours.
Sperm, however, can live in the reproductive tract for 3–5 days. This means your “fertile window” spans several days: about 3–4 days before ovulation through one day after. Having sexual intercourse during this window increases the chances of pregnancy.
How to Recognize Ovulation
For many women, it isn’t easy to know when ovulation is happening. Learning your body’s natural patterns can help you understand your reproductive health more clearly. Some ways to detect ovulation include:
- Physical changes: Clear, stretchy vaginal discharge (similar to raw egg whites) and a rise in basal body temperature can be indicators of ovulation.
- Period tracker apps: If your cycle is regular, ovulation often occurs around day 14 of a 28-day cycle. If your cycle length varies, a tracker app can help identify patterns.
- Home ovulation kits: These detect the hormonal changes that happen right before ovulation.
Why Understanding Fertility Matters
Whether you’re trying to become pregnant or seeking to avoid pregnancy, understanding your cycle can help you make informed choices about your health and future. For those with irregular cycles, ovulation can be harder to pinpoint, making tools like apps, kits, or consultations especially helpful.
At First Care, we’re here to provide clarity and answer your questions in a supportive and confidential environment.
Schedule Your Appointment Today
We’re ready to walk with you. Our free and confidential services help you confidently take your next step.
Schedule your free appointment at First Care today—your health, questions, and future matter. Same-day appointments are also available for your convenience.
FAQ: Fertility and Pregnancy Questions
Can I get pregnant during my period?
It’s not the most likely time, but it is still possible, especially if you ovulate earlier than expected and sperm survive in your reproductive tract.
What if my cycle is irregular?
Pregnancy is still possible, but it may be harder to predict fertile days. If you’re unsure, tracking your cycle and contacting a trusted healthcare provider for support is a good idea.
When should I take a pregnancy test?
For the most accurate results, wait until at least one to two days after a missed period. First Care offers free, lab-quality pregnancy tests to give you reliable answers.
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My Period is Late. What Do I Do?
A late period can bring up a lot of questions. Could you be pregnant? Is stress affecting your cycle? Is something else going on with your health?
No matter what’s running through your mind, a clear next step will help you begin answering questions: Taking a pregnancy test. At First Care, we offer lab-quality pregnancy testing and verification services so you can find out with certainty.
Could It Be Pregnancy?
Missing a period is one of the first signs of pregnancy, but it doesn’t always mean you’re pregnant. Hormonal changes, stress, diet, and other factors can also impact your cycle.
That said, if you’ve had sex and your period is late, it’s a good idea to take a pregnancy test anytime after a missed period.
In addition to a missed period, here are a few other early pregnancy symptoms you could experience:
- Sore or swollen breasts
- Nausea or vomiting
- Increased tiredness
- Frequent urination
- Bloating or constipation
- Mild cramping
- Mood swings
- Heightened sensitivity to smells or tastes
Some feel noticeable symptoms immediately, while others may not notice anything. Every woman experiences pregnancy differently.
Only a pregnancy test followed by an ultrasound can give you answers and a clear picture.
How First Care Can Help
Your first step is a pregnancy test. At First Care, we offer free, lab-quality pregnancy testing that’s accurate and confidential. If your test is positive, we may also provide a limited ultrasound at no cost to confirm your pregnancy and give you important information about how far along you are, revealing your options and protecting your health.
We know how stressful this moment can feel, but you don’t have to walk through it alone. First Care is here to support you at no cost.
Schedule your free appointment today. We’re here for you.
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How Can I Take Care of Myself During Pregnancy?
Pregnancy comes with many changes and emotions. You might feel happiness, uncertainty, anticipation, and even anxiety. It’s natural to be focused on preparing for your baby’s arrival, but don’t forget that your well-being is just as important.
Taking care of yourself during pregnancy is vital to preparing for motherhood. At First Care, we’re here to walk alongside you with free and confidential support as you care for yourself and your baby.
Listen to Your Body
The demands of pregnancy can be overwhelming. It’s easy to keep pushing forward between prenatal visits, preparing your home, and gathering baby supplies. That’s why it’s so important to check in with yourself and be honest about what you need.
Don’t be afraid to speak up, whether you need to nap, have a quiet evening at home, or receive additional support from a loved one. The people in your life may want to support you, but they might not know how unless you share what would help most.
Rest Is Crucial
Sleep and rest are fundamental to a healthy pregnancy. Fatigue is normal, especially in the later months of pregnancy, and resting when you can helps prepare you for the physical demands ahead.
Taking short naps or enjoying a slower routine when possible can make a big difference.
Nourish Yourself
Eating well is an essential part of self-care. It’s not about perfection—it’s about giving your body what it needs to support your baby’s development and your energy levels. Incorporate a variety of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, protein-rich foods, and water into your diet.
Taking prenatal vitamins and eating balanced meals are simple ways to support your health and your baby’s growth.
Keep Moving
Staying active can help improve your mood and keep your joints and muscles moving. Gentle movement, such as swimming, walking around the block, or stretching, can be instrumental in your daily routine.
Always consult your healthcare provider to find the level of activity that’s right for you.
Stay Connected
Spending time with a friend, having a quiet night in with family, or attending a support group for pregnant moms can help you feel grounded.
Pregnancy is full of change, and every day may feel different. You are worthy of having a strong community behind you to face the ups and downs. Give yourself permission to rest and ask for help. You deserve it.
You Don’t Have to Do It Alone
At First Care, we offer free and confidential resources to support you at every stage. Whether you need someone to talk to, help finding local services, or parenting education, we’re here.
Schedule an appointment today. We’re here to help.
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4 Tips for Managing Stress During Pregnancy
We know pregnancy can feel overwhelming and filled with stress at times. There are ways to reduce the anxiety you feel drastically. We’re here to share four tips for managing stress during pregnancy.
At First Care, we are here to walk with you as you seek answers during your pregnancy and beyond. We offer free and confidential pregnancy services and options information.
Tips for Managing Stress During Pregnancy
#1: Work through your emotions
While working through every emotion that comes your way can be difficult right now, try it one day at a time. Write about your feelings, talk it out with a friend, or slow down to process your emotions.
Your mind and body will thank you later for taking the time to work through every emotion as best as possible. It’s worth the effort.
#2: Spend time with friends/family
A study conducted by Carnegie Mellon University found that people use their family and friends as a stress buffer, talking through their problems instead of engaging in negative coping mechanisms.
Being with friends and family can reduce stress and ease your mind and your future. We all need a tribe around us, especially during pregnancy.
#3: Self-Care
Self-care is a form of self-love, and it’s a great way to feel refreshed and taken care of during pregnancy. It’s a way of caring for yourself physically, emotionally, and spiritually.
Create a self-care routine and rhythm, or simply set a day to pamper yourself with everything you need and love. This could look like:
- Going to the spa or sauna
- Pilates with a friend
- Journaling/self-reflection
- Going on a run/walk in nature
- Meal prepping for the week
- Trying a new recipe
#4: Prepare for what’s next
We all know how tempting it is to procrastinate when stressed. Alleviate some stress by doing the things you’ve been putting off for a while.
Give yourself a deadline and stick to it. When you actually do what you’ve been stressed about, it will feel like the world’s weight is off your shoulders.
We’re Here for You
Our team is here to help you navigate pregnancy. We offer free pregnancy services and support so you can confidently make your next move. Talk to us today to find support.
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Why Does an Ultrasound Matter if I’m Considering Abortion?
Are you wondering why you need an ultrasound if you’re thinking about abortion? An ultrasound is essential to your pregnancy confirmation journey. It’s vital for determining your pregnancy’s viability and available pregnancy options.
Why An Ultrasound Matters
An ultrasound safeguards your health and gives you clarity to help you move forward with whichever option you choose. Here are three details an ultrasound confirms for you.
1. How Far Along You Are
An ultrasound tells you the gestational age or how far along you are in your pregnancy. This will help you understand the options available at your pregnancy stage and your estimated due date.
For instance, the abortion pill (medical abortion) is only FDA-approved for women through the first ten weeks of pregnancy. After this point of pregnancy, there are increased risks involved, which could make another option safer for you.
Additionally, if you are planning to carry to term for parenting or adoption, an ultrasound will help you estimate your due date to plan for the future.
2. The Location of Your Pregnancy
An ultrasound confirms your pregnancy’s location to reveal whether it is located inside or outside the uterus.
When a fertilized egg implants outside the uterus, it is known as an ectopic pregnancy. It is a non-viable pregnancy that can be dangerous and even life-threatening if not treated quickly.
Keep in mind that medical abortion will not treat an ectopic pregnancy due to its location. This means ectopic pregnancies can go undetected if women decide to take the abortion pill without first having an ultrasound scan.
3. Whether Your Pregnancy Is Progressing
Lastly, an ultrasound confirms whether your pregnancy has a heartbeat and is progressing.
You can get a positive pregnancy test and still be experiencing a miscarriage. If an ultrasound cannot detect a heartbeat, it could be too early in the pregnancy to detect it, or you may have experienced a miscarriage, which is a sudden pregnancy loss.
It’s critical to seek medical attention if you may have miscarried to determine if treatment is necessary or if the miscarriage has resolved on its own.
Before an Abortion
You deserve all the information to make an informed pregnancy decision. At First Care, we offer lab-quality urine pregnancy testing, limited ultrasounds, options counseling, material assistance, and STI testing and treatment, all completely free of charge.
Talk with our team today and schedule a free appointment to get answers about your pregnancy and options. We’re here for you.
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What Do I Need to Know if I Am Pregnant in College?
Being pregnant in college can be a nerve-wracking experience. However, as you assess your situation and take the next steps, know that you don’t have to experience them alone.
First Care provides free and confidential services that offer all the information you need to feel confident about your pregnancy decision. During a time when you feel like your future is up in the air, know that we’re here to help you process as you navigate what is next.
Keep reading to learn what to consider while pregnant in college. You can also schedule an appointment to connect with our staff.
You Can Still Continue Your Education.
Despite what you may have heard, pregnancy doesn’t mean you are unable to finish school and accomplish your dreams. No one can legally discriminate against you for being pregnant or having a child.
Title IX protects you from this discrimination. It requires schools to allow you to keep participating in classes and extracurriculars, provide reasonable accommodations like more frequent bathroom breaks, protect you from harassment, and more.
Excused absences also must be permitted for pregnancy and childbirth.
Though the law is on your side, you can also advocate for your rights by meeting with a Title IX coordinator or school counselor and reporting any problems.
You can still meet your academic goals. However, if you’re worried about the social aspect of an unexpected pregnancy, we can help.
This is Your Life. This is Your Decision.
Experiencing pregnancy while in college may feel unpredictable. You may worry about what your friends and classmates think, how you’ll tell your parents, and what options are available.
First Care is here for you. Our Client Advocates can assess your needs, provide community resources that offer support while in school, help you navigate conversations with loved ones, and more.
Even while you’re in school, you still have the right to make a pregnancy decision. No one can force you to choose one option over another.
We provide free, lab-quality pregnancy testing and limited ultrasounds to confirm your pregnancy. We can also provide a Proof of Pregnancy Form for insurance or benefits purposes.
Once you’ve confirmed your pregnancy, we can discuss your options. The pregnancy decision is yours alone; we provide nonjudgmental information as you weigh each option.
You are stronger than you think. We’re here to help as you move forward.
Free and Confidential Services
First Care offers comprehensive pregnancy medical services in a safe, professional environment. You are not alone.
Schedule an appointment today. Same-day appointments are also available.
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What Are My Second-Trimester Pregnancy Options?
While schools divide a year into two semesters, fall and spring, a pregnancy is divided into three trimesters. The first trimester is from week one to week 13, the second is from week 14 to week 26, and the third is from week 27 to week 40.
Choosing to Parent
Just because your pregnancy is unplanned, it doesn’t meIn Minnesota, you have three options for your pregnancy during the second trimester. You can choose to parent, make an adoption plan, or have an abortion. Let’s take a closer look at all three.
an it’s impossible to parent. You may be surprised at the number of resources available to help you.
Minnesota assists single parents and families managing financial strain with the following services, depending on eligibility:
- Housing
- Utilities
- Medical and Dental Care
- Food
- Childcare
- Emergency cash
At First Care, we offer resources personalized to your family situation, including:
- Community Resources
- Grants and Financial Aid Assistance
- Prenatal Classes
- Birthing Classes
- Parenting Program
- Baby Items (including diapers, wipes, clothing, equipment, etc.)
Making an Adoption Plan
If you don’t feel prepared to parent at this time, you may want to consider making an adoption plan for your child. You are in control of the process every step of the way.
You can choose the adoptive parents who raise your child. By personally selecting a family, you are able to decide the home and environment that is best for you and your child. There are different levels of openness that you are able to pick from. In each phase of the adoption process, you are supported and empowered in whatever decision you make.
Here are some of the benefits of choosing to make an adoption plan for your child:
- No cost for birth parents
- Continuing a relationship with your child
- Financial assistance for food, clothing, housing, etc.
- Counseling before and after the placement occurs
- Receive legal representation
- Ongoing support
Selecting adoption is a difficult decision, but the ball is in your court. By meeting with one of our Expectant Parent Social Workers, you can learn more about the process, look through family profiles, and communicate your preferences. Meeting with a social worker does NOT mean that you have committed to an adoption plan. You are able to change your mind at any point until the adoption placement is secure.
Having an Abortion
Your third option is to have an abortion. Minnesota law approves abortion throughout your pregnancy, so it is possible to have a second-trimester abortion.
We do not perform or refer for abortion, but we can give you medically-accurate information about abortion procedures, potential side effects, and the associated risks.
There are two main types of abortion: medication abortion and surgical abortion.
Medication Abortion (aka the abortion pill method)
- The FDA approves the use of abortion drugs through 10 weeks of pregnancy, which is only within the first trimester. An ultrasound can help to determine how far along you are in your pregnancy.
- The later you are in your pregnancy, the less effective the drugs are.
- Side effects include bleeding, cramping, fever, and diarrhea.
- Risks include an incomplete abortion, heavy bleeding, infection, and fever.
Surgical Abortion
- At 14 or more weeks, you may have a procedure called dilation and curettage (D & C).
- An article printed in the National Library of Medicine concluded that women having second-trimester abortions were more likely to report pain.
- Side effects include bleeding and cramping.
- Risks include infection, uterine perforation (the surgical instrument pokes a hole in the uterus), and heavy bleeding.
Visit First Care for More Information
Schedule a free and confidential appointment with one of our professional client care workers at one of our First Care locations. We can discuss your individual situation and all the options that are available to you.
All of our services are free and confidential. We’re here for you every step of the way.
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My Birth Control Failed: What Do I Do?
No method of birth control or contraception can completely prevent pregnancy. If you’re seeing a positive result on your at-home pregnancy test, then it’s clear your birth control failed.
While this can be extremely nerve-racking, know that you are not alone. Many women find themselves experiencing an unexpected pregnancy and visit First Care for support.
Here are some next steps to take after discovering you are pregnant despite using birth control.
1. Confirm Your Pregnancy
A positive pregnancy test doesn’t tell the full story. It’s possible to have a positive test and then learn that there are complications with your pregnancy. Only an ultrasound scan can confirm the viability and location of your pregnancy.
About 10-20% of known pregnancies end in miscarriage. Miscarriage occurs when the pregnancy ends on its own before the 20th week of pregnancy.
About 2% of pregnancies are ectopic, which happens when a fertilized egg implants outside of the uterus, typically in a fallopian tube. This type of pregnancy is non-viable, meaning it cannot be carried to term and survive. It can also be potentially life-threatening.
An ultrasound scan can screen for either of these complications by detecting a heartbeat and verifying the location of your pregnancy. It’s critical to receive an ultrasound, no matter the options you are considering, so that you can be informed and protect your health.
2. Learn Your Gestational Age
An ultrasound can also tell you how far along you are, which is important for all three of your options: parenting, adoption, and abortion.
For parenting and adoption, you will learn your probable due date, allowing you to plan ahead.
If you’re considering an abortion, knowing the pregnancy’s gestational age will determine your available abortion options. The abortion pill is only FDA-approved for use within the first ten weeks of pregnancy. After that, you would have to opt for another type of abortion.
3. Weigh Your Options
Once you have confirmed your pregnancy’s viability, location, and gestational age, you can start weighing and assessing your options. You might not know what to do at first, but looking into each option can bring clarity.
Ask yourself questions like “Could I see myself choosing this option?” or “What would my future look like if I picked this?”
Then, take stock of your resources. If you are considering parenting but feel it’s too difficult or expensive, many organizations like ours are ready to provide support, classes, and supplies.
Choose for yourself. The decision will impact you more than anyone else.
Start with First Care
First Care offers 100% free and confidential pregnancy services, including lab-quality pregnancy testing and ultrasounds. We are here to support you as you consider what to do next.
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What Do I Need to Know if I Am Pregnant in High School?
You might have imagined Friday night football games, learning to drive, and attending prom during high school, but not pregnancy.
If you’re in high school and recently found out that you’re pregnant, we are here to support you. We know that this can be a shocking and stressful situation. Scheduling an appointment at First Care can be a great first step as you will have a safe space to discuss all your options with our licensed, compassionate staff members.
As you process, here are a few things to keep in mind if you are pregnant as a high schooler.
You Have Rights
You may wonder what continuing your high school classes and activities could look like.
Under Title IX, you receive protection from any discrimination based on pregnancy or parenting in educational programs or activities. Any school — public or private — that receives federal funds must comply.
This protection means you can continue with your school year and any programs you participate in. Here are a few things your school must do:
- Allow you to continue participating in classes and extracurricular activities
- Provide you with reasonable adjustments, such as a larger desk or more frequent trips to the restroom
- Excuse absences for pregnancy or childbirth for as long as a doctor says is necessary
- Allow you to return to the same academic and extracurricular status
- Protect you from harassment
2. Your Future Extends Beyond High School
While it’s incredibly overwhelming to face an unexpected pregnancy, especially in high school, it’s critical to think beyond your high school years.
Your decision will change your life. You must make a choice you feel comfortable having as part of your story.
If you’re concerned about what others might think of you or your reputation, remember that you may not see many of your classmates in a few years. They may move, attend different colleges, or start full-time jobs. Those you stay in touch with will be the ones you consider your closest friends.
Don’t let others or fear decide what is next for you. Make your next choices based on what you want for your future.
3. You Have Three Choices
You have three choices: parenting, abortion, and adoption. While your parents or partner may have opinions or try to pressure you, remember that the decision is ultimately yours.
We can provide you with accurate information on all three of these options and resources. You deserve to make an informed and empowered choice.
Visit First Care for Pregnancy Confirmation
If you’ve only had a positive pregnancy test, it’s time for a free ultrasound.
An ultrasound aims to confirm the viability of your pregnancy, get an accurate gestational age (based on fetal measurements), and look at the placement of the pregnancy. During this appointment, you will be supplied with important information regarding your health and pregnancy options. Schedule an appointment today!
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What Are the Early Pregnancy Symptoms?
The time between when you had sex and your expected period can feel like forever when you’re waiting to find out if you’re pregnant.
Most at-home pregnancy tests instruct you to wait until close to or after your missed period to get an accurate result. During that waiting time, you may experience signs and symptoms that make you suspect you’re pregnant.
Here are a few early pregnancy signs and symptoms you could experience.
1. Nausea with or without Vomiting
Have you been feeling nauseous? Commonly known as “morning sickness,” pregnancy nausea can happen at any time of day or night. While the cause isn’t fully known, it’s likely due to hormonal changes during pregnancy.
2.Tender, Swollen Breasts
If your breasts feel tender to touch, sore, or swollen, this could be an early pregnancy symptom. However, it can be similar to how your breasts can feel before a monthly period.
One difference during pregnancy is that your areolas (the area around your nipples) can darken and enlarge. If you notice this change, it could be a sign of pregnancy.
3.Fatigue
Do you feel sleepy, tired, or want to nap? Fatigue is a common early pregnancy symptom likely caused by high levels of the hormone progesterone. If you feel like you just can’t rest enough and you have lower-than-normal energy levels, it could be pregnancy.
4.Frequent Urination
Maybe you used to go hours without using the restroom, and now you have to look for one whenever you leave the house.
When pregnant, the body’s blood supply increases, causing the kidneys to process more fluid. The kidneys filtering more blood means extra fluid will end up in the bladder, leading to more frequent urges to urinate.
5.Missed Period
A missed period is one of the most obvious signs that you could be pregnant. However, women with irregular periods may not notice right away.
When you become pregnant, your body releases hormones to stop ovulation and menstruation. This means that you will not have a period until after pregnancy.
Are You Ready for Pregnancy Testing?
If you’ve missed your period, it’s time to take a pregnancy test.
Visit First Care for free lab-quality pregnancy testing. If your pregnancy test result is positive, we can schedule a free ultrasound scan to provide more information regarding your pregnancy as you navigate your next steps.
Schedule a confidential appointment at one of our five locations today!
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