Finding out you might be pregnant can bring a mix of emotions, including excitement, fear, confusion, and hope. And one of the first questions most people ask is:

“How far along am I?”

It is a normal question, and it matters for your health and your next steps. But here is the honest truth: a pregnancy test can tell you you’re pregnant, but it cannot tell you how far along you are. The most accurate way to confirm how far along you are is with an ultrasound and follow-up with a doctor or qualified medical provider.

If you are feeling unsure, you do not have to figure this out alone. LoveLine can help you take the next step with clarity and support.

Why It Can Be Hard to Tell How Far Along You Are

Many people estimate pregnancy based on their last menstrual period (often called LMP). But real life is not always that straightforward.

You may not know your exact dates if:

• Your cycles are irregular.
• You recently stopped or changed birth control.
• You were breastfeeding.
• You had light bleeding or spotting that confused your timing.
• Stress, travel, illness, or weight changes affected your cycle.
• You are not sure when conception happened.

Because of this, estimates from a period-tracking app can be helpful but not always accurate.

How Pregnancy Weeks Are Usually Counted (LMP)

Pregnancy dating is commonly counted from the first day of your last menstrual period, not from the day you had sex or conceived. That can feel confusing because it means you can be “4 weeks pregnant” around the time you are just getting a positive test.

This is why two people with the same positive test date can still be at different weeks along.

Early Signs Do Not Reliably Tell You the Exact Week

Symptoms can vary widely. Some people feel symptoms early. Others feel nothing for weeks. Common early pregnancy symptoms include:

• Missed period
• Breast tenderness
• Nausea or vomiting
• Fatigue
• Frequent urination
• Mood changes
• Spotting (sometimes)

These symptoms do not accurately date a pregnancy. They can overlap with PMS, stress, hormonal changes, and more.

The Most Accurate Way to Know: Ultrasound Dating

If you want the clearest answer to “how far along am I,” an ultrasound is the best next step.

An ultrasound can:

• Confirm the pregnancy is in the uterus (important for health and safety)
• Estimate gestational age
• Provide a more reliable due date
• Help clarify timing if your cycles are irregular

When is an ultrasound most accurate for dating?

Ultrasounds in the first trimester are generally the most accurate for pregnancy dating because early fetal growth tends to follow a more predictable pattern.

Why You Should Confirm With a Doctor or Qualified Provider

Even if you have a strong estimate, it is wise to confirm with a medical professional. A provider can:

• Review your symptoms and medical history
• Confirm pregnancy dating and due date
• Answer questions about what is normal and what is not
• Help you understand your options for prenatal care and support
• Check for concerns like ectopic pregnancy, anemia, infection, or other health needs

If you are experiencing severe pain, heavy bleeding, dizziness, or shoulder pain, seek urgent medical care.

What If You’re Not Ready for an Appointment Yet?

That is okay. Many people feel overwhelmed at first. If you are in that space, start with one small step:

• Write down what you know (possible LMP date, symptoms, test date)
• Make a plan to get an ultrasound. If you need help locating an ultrasound or cannot afford one, please contact LoveLine so we can assist.

You deserve time, information, and compassion as you process.

You Do Not Have to Navigate Pregnancy Uncertainty Alone

If you are pregnant (or think you might be) and you are feeling uncertain, LoveLine is here for you. We can help you think through next steps, connect you with resources, and support you as you move forward.

Text LoveLine at 888-550-1588.[1]

You are not alone. Clarity is possible, and support is available.

Quick FAQ: How Far Along Am I?

Can a pregnancy test tell how far along I am?

No. A test confirms pregnancy hormones, but it cannot accurately date a pregnancy.

Can an app tell me my exact due date?

Apps can estimate based on your last period, but it is not always accurate, especially with irregular cycles.

What is the best way to confirm how far along I am?

An ultrasound, confirmed with a medical professional, is the most reliable approach.