The main characteristics of pregnancy are a missed period, tender and/or swollen breasts, fatigue, and nausea. If you suspect you might be pregnant, the first step is to confirm pregnancy. One way to do this is through a pregnancy test. They are available in pharmacies and some grocery stores.
Pregnancy Test
During pregnancy, the hormone HCG (human chorionic gonadotrophin) is produced in the body, which pregnancy tests detect in urine. A pregnancy test is reliable if performed correctly, according to the instructions included with the test. Pregnancy tests can be purchased at the nearest pharmacy.
Most pregnancy tests are effective from the day when menstrual bleeding is supposed to start, about two weeks after conception. If you do not know when your next period should begin, it is advisable to take a pregnancy test three weeks after unprotected intercourse.
If the pregnancy test is positive, it is almost certain that you are pregnant, if this is the case, call your healthcare center and schedule the first prenatal appointment. The first prenatal appointment is recommended between 8-12 weeks of pregnancy.
For early scans, call the office of an obstetrician-gynecologist directly, the cost of early scans is not covered by insurance.
A negative pregnancy test does not always mean that there is no pregnancy. If the test is done before the expected start of menstruation, it can be negative even if pregnancy is present. If you suspect pregnancy despite a negative test, you should repeat the test a week later.
Recommendations and Assistance
It is recommended to take a folic acid tablet (folate, folic acid, folin) daily. Folate, which is a B-vitamin, is essential for pregnant women, reducing the risk of serious neural tube defects. Pregnant women are advised to take a folic acid tablet for at least the first 12 weeks of pregnancy. Generally, there is no need to take other supplements during pregnancy besides folic acid and vitamin D.
It is recommended to have an interview with a doctor or midwife as soon as possible if the expectant parent has a medical condition, is taking multiple medications, or has other health concerns that require special attention.
The use of tobacco, alcohol, or other substances during pregnancy is not recommended. If you struggle to stop using any substances without assistance, it is advisable to seek advice from a midwife or doctor at the healthcare center as soon as possible.
You can get advice from a midwife by going to Heilsuvera.is and opening the chat or by calling 1700, on weekdays between 10:00 am and 12:00 pm.
Unwanted Pregnancy
If the pregnancy is unwanted, advice can be sought from a physician at a local clinic or at the Women's Health Unit (Kvennadeild) at Landspítali Hospital. In these cases, it is good to consider what support is available to raise a child, whether there is an option for adoption, or to terminate the pregnancy. Abortion should always be performed as quickly as possible, preferably before the end of the 12th week of pregnancy, seeking advice from a professional right away is therefore important.
You can call 543-3224 to reach the Women's Health Unit (Kvennadeild) at Landspítali Hospital on weekdays between 8:00 am and 4:00 pm to schedule an appointment for an abortion. You can also call the voicemail of the Women's Health Unit directly at 543-3600, leaving your name, social security number (kennitala), and phone number. A return call will be made within three working days, providing a time for an appointment between 10:00 am and 3:00 pm.