Discovering that you or your partner is pregnant can be one of the most exciting moments in your life. However, it’s not always so easy to tell whether a pregnancy is in the works, especially if you’re not actively trying to conceive.
There are a number of early signs and symptoms that can indicate pregnancy, and we’ve rounded up 10 of the most common ones here.
1. Missed period
A missed period is often the first sign of pregnancy. If you have regular periods and suddenly miss one, it’s a good idea to take a pregnancy test to see if you’re pregnant.
2. Nausea/vomiting
Some women experience nausea and vomiting during the first few weeks of pregnancy. This is often referred to as morning sickness and can happen at any time of the day or night.
3. Fatigue
Feeling more tired than usual is another common sign of early pregnancy. You may find that you need to take naps during the day or that you feel exhausted even after a full night’s sleep.
4. Breast changes
During early pregnancy, your breasts may become sore, tender, or swollen. You may also notice that your nipples are more sensitive than usual.
5. Cravings/food aversions
It’s not uncommon for pregnant women to have strong cravings for certain foods or to develop aversions to foods they previously enjoyed.
If you find yourself suddenly craving pickles or feeling repulsed by your favorite snack, pregnancy may be the culprit.
6. Frequent urination
Pregnancy can also cause an increase in trips to the bathroom. You may find that you need to urinate more frequently than usual, especially during the first trimester.
7. Mood swings
Pregnancy can cause hormonal changes that result in mood swings and emotional ups and downs. If you find yourself feeling weepy one minute and irritable the next, pregnancy may be to blame.
8. Spotting
Some women experience light spotting during the early weeks of pregnancy. This is typically nothing to worry about, but it’s always a good idea to check with your doctor to make sure everything is progressing normally.
9. Dizziness
Pregnancy can cause changes in blood pressure and blood sugar levels, which can lead to feelings of dizziness or lightheadedness. If you suddenly feel woozy or unsteady on your feet, pregnancy could be the cause.
10. Elevated body temperature
During pregnancy, your body temperature may rise slightly due to the metabolic demands of pregnancy. If you find that you’re feeling warmer than usual, even when others around you are comfortable, it could be a sign that you’re pregnant.