If you are sexually active and your period is 5-7 days late you might be pregnant. Missing your period is the usually the most common reason to think you might be pregnant.  Other early signs of pregnancy may include: breast tenderness, nipples that darken in colour, fatigue, mood swings or irritability, nausea and/or morning sickness, dizziness or fainting, bloating and/or weight gain, food cravings, heartburn and/or constipation, lower back pain, sensitivity to certain smells, and/or frequent urination.

However, it is important to note that not all symptoms of pregnancy are the same for every woman, nor are they always the same from one pregnancy to another for the same woman.

If you may be pregnant, it is important not to drink any alcohol until you know - that shows respect for your baby if you turn out to be pregnant.  This will help protect your baby and make sure he or she is developing healthily.

You can take a home pregnancy test if you think you are pregnant.  Home pregnancy test kits are sold in all drug stores and sometimes in other stores and if used properly and not taken too early into the pregnancy, they are usually accurate.

Remember that the only way to know for sure is to talk to a nurse or doctor.  Your local health centre can also give you a test. If you are pregnant you need to see a doctor or nurse in your community as soon as possible to discuss your options and ensure your health and the health of your baby.

However, even though a missed period is a common sign of pregnancy, there are other reasons for a missed period. Diet, excessive exercise and stress may all cause a woman to miss her period. In addition, certain birth control methods can also reduce or stop menstrual bleeding. Some women, particularly younger women, may have irregular menstrual cycles, making it very difficult to predict when her period is due.  If you are worried about getting pregnant or concerned about how often you get your period, speak to a doctor or nurse about it.

For more information about knowing if you are pregnant, click on the link below.

Am I Pregnant