Symptoms of a cryptic pregnancy are the same symptoms associated with pregnancy in general.

Besides a missed period, some symptoms of early pregnancy can include:

Bloatingand weight gain also can occur.

Some people say theirvivid dreamsare an early sign of pregnancy.

What to Know About a Cryptic Pregnancy - Illustration by Jessica Olah

Illustration by Jessica Olah for Verywell Health

How far along can you be with an undetected pregnancy?

As many as one in 475 pregnancies go undetected or unnoticed until the 20-week, or five-month, mark.

That’s roughly half of someone’s pregnancy.

Renita White, MD

One in 2,455 pregnancies goes unrecognized until a persongoes into labor.

Causes

A number of factors can contribute to an undetected pregnancy.

These include physical, medical, and emotional conditions.

In some situations, there may be an inherited connection.

Pregnancy Denial

Certain life circumstances increase your risk of experiencing a hidden pregnancy.

Risk Factors

Body composition can put you at risk for a cryptic pregnancy.

This may make it difficult to realize you’re pregnant.

Overweight and obesity are also risk factors for undetected pregnancy.

Early maternal care is key to limiting these problems.

Outcomes

Not recognizing pregnancyeven just for a short timecan be dangerous for you and the fetus.

You may experience a complex mix of changing emotions as you continue to process the pregnancy.

Your healthcare provider can help you to identify resources.

If you or a loved one are in immediate danger, call911.

This can be due to missed pregnancy symptoms or their absence, or denial about them.

Cryptic pregnancies are associated with health concerns for both you and the fetus.

It’s important to seek appropriate care as soon as possible.

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