When you are trying to conceive, you may find yourself paying extra attention to your body. It is important to know the early signs of pregnancy so that you can identify them if they occur. Early signs of pregnancy can vary from woman to woman.
While some women might not experience any symptoms, others may notice changes in their body as early as a few days after conception.
1. Missed Period
A missed period is one of the most obvious signs of pregnancy. If your period is usually on time, a missed period can be a sign that you are pregnant.
However, there are many other reasons why you might miss your period such as stress, illness, or medication. If you miss your period, it is always best to take a pregnancy test to confirm if you are pregnant or not.
2. Slight Bleeding or Spotting
Some women experience slight bleeding or spotting during the early stages of pregnancy. This is known as implantation bleeding. It occurs when the fertilized egg attaches itself to the uterine wall.
Implantation bleeding is short-lived and usually occurs around the time of your expected period.
3. Nausea or Morning Sickness
One of the most common early signs of pregnancy is nausea or morning sickness. It is usually experienced during the first trimester but can last throughout the pregnancy.
Morning sickness can be triggered by certain smells or tastes, and can make you feel very uncomfortable. You can try to manage morning sickness by eating small meals throughout the day and avoiding spicy or fatty foods.
4. Fatigue
Feeling extremely tired and lethargic is also an early sign of pregnancy. Your body is working hard to support the growing fetus, and this can leave you feeling exhausted. You may need to take naps or rest more during the day to manage your fatigue.
5. Breast Changes
You may notice changes in your breasts during the early stages of pregnancy. They may become sore or tender to the touch. You may also notice that your breasts feel heavier or fuller than usual. These changes occur due to hormonal changes in your body.
6. Frequent Urination
You may find yourself running to the bathroom more often during the early stages of pregnancy. This is because the growing uterus is putting pressure on your bladder. You may also experience a heightened sense of urgency when you need to urinate.
7. Mood Swings
Changes in hormone levels can cause mood swings during the early stages of pregnancy. You may feel extremely emotional, irritable or even weepy. These feelings are normal and will usually pass.
8. Cramping or Spotting
Some women experience mild cramping and spotting during the early stages of pregnancy. This is usually due to the uterus stretching and growing to accommodate the fetus.
However, if the cramping or spotting is severe, you should contact your healthcare provider immediately.
9. Food Aversions or Cravings
It is common to have food aversions or cravings during the early stages of pregnancy. You may find yourself craving certain foods or being repulsed by others. These cravings and aversions are usually temporary and will pass as your pregnancy progresses.
10. Elevated Body Temperature
You may notice that your body temperature is slightly elevated during the early stages of pregnancy. This is due to the increased production of progesterone in your body.
However, an elevated body temperature can also be a sign of infection, so it is important to monitor your temperature and seek medical attention if it does not go away.
Conclusion
As you can see, there are many early signs of pregnancy that you can lookout for. While these signs do not necessarily mean that you are pregnant, they could be an indication that you need to take a pregnancy test.
If you suspect that you are pregnant, it is important to see your healthcare provider as soon as possible to begin prenatal care.