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Pregnancy symptoms vary between individuals, but the most commonly noticed sign is delayed menstrual period. Breast tenderness, nausea, and vomiting may also be present. Vaginal spotting at the time of period instead of a full period as experienced on the previous months is also common. Any abnormally light period in a sexually active person could be a symptom of pregnancy. If you are not practicing safer sex or if you have any worries that you might be pregnant, take a pregnancy test as soon as possible. Any pelvic pain associated with abnormal bleeding and a positive pregnancy test must be immediately evaluated by a healthcare professional.
Sometimes you might have light bleeding within 2 weeks after your missed period. You may have a positive pregnancy test with no real change in your uterus. Before the tube ruptures, you may have cramps, a constant dull pain or sharp stabbing pains in your abdomen. In order to properly diagnose an ectopic pregnancy, you need a medical exam, which will include a medical history. The practitioner will ask you questions about this and other pregnancies, infections, sexually transmitted infections, etc. The practitioner will also perform a pelvic exam to check your uterus and your tubes. Also a serial blood tests to measure the level of pregnancy hormones in your blood.
Having an annual health care visit is a great opportunity to take charge of your health. A well/annual visit provides an excellent opportunity to discuss methods of maintaining a healthy lifestyle and minimizing health risks. Physicians have an opportunity to contribute to your overall health and well-being by providing recommended preventive care and counseling or refer for recommended services. Routine health care visits can help find problems early or prevent health problems before they occur. If problems are found early, they may be easier to treat and less likely to pose serious risks to your health. These assessments should include screening, evaluation/counseling, and immunizations based on age and risk factors.
A key component of a well/annual visit for a reproductive-aged patient is the development and discussion of a reproductive life plan to ensure that medical testing and treatments provided are aligned with the patient’s current and future plans. A discussion of a reproductive life plan may include pre-pregnancy counseling, infertility assessment, or the full range of contraceptive options. Routine screening for gynecological diseases or conditions are equally as important, and periodic well/annual visits are appropriate and necessary for perimenopausal and postmenopausal patients as well.