The most common early pregnancy signs and symptoms include:
- Missed period: This is often the first sign of pregnancy. If you have a regular menstrual cycle and miss your period, you may be pregnant. However, missing a period can also be caused by other factors, such as stress, illness, or weight changes.
- Nausea and vomiting: Nausea and vomiting, often called “morning sickness,” are very common early pregnancy symptoms. They can start as early as two weeks after conception and can last for several weeks or months.
- Breast changes: Your breasts may become swollen, tender, or sore early in pregnancy. The nipples and areolae (the dark circles around the nipples) may also darken.
- Fatigue: Many pregnant women experience fatigue early in pregnancy. This is due to the increased levels of hormones in your body.
- Frequent urination: You may need to urinate more often early in pregnancy. This is because your body is producing more blood and your kidneys are filtering more waste.
Other early pregnancy signs and symptoms may include:
- Mood swings: You may experience mood swings early in pregnancy. This is due to the hormonal changes in your body.
- Spotting or light bleeding: Some women experience light spotting or bleeding around the time of implantation, when the fertilized egg attaches to the lining of the uterus. This is usually nothing to worry about, but it is important to talk to your doctor if you have any concerns.
- Cramping: Mild cramping is common early in pregnancy. This is due to the uterus stretching and growing.
- Back pain: Back pain is another common early pregnancy symptom. This is due to the changes in your posture and the weight gain on your back.
- Headaches: Headaches can be common early in pregnancy. This is due to the hormonal changes in your body.
- Constipation: Constipation is another common early pregnancy symptom. This is due to the hormonal changes in your body and the pressure of the growing uterus on your intestines.
If you are experiencing any of these early pregnancy signs and symptoms, it is important to take a home pregnancy test. Home pregnancy tests are very accurate and can be purchased at any drugstore.
If you get a positive pregnancy test, schedule an appointment with your doctor. Your doctor will confirm the pregnancy and start prenatal care. Prenatal care is important for the health of you and your baby.