Pregnancy is a wonderful journey that brings about numerous changes in a woman’s body. While some women may experience early signs and symptoms, others may not notice any changes until a missed period.

It’s important to remember that every woman is unique, and symptoms can vary from person to person. In this article, we will discuss some of the recognizable symptoms of pregnancy.

1. Missed Period

One of the most obvious signs of pregnancy is a missed period. This occurs because pregnancy stops the menstrual cycle.

However, it’s important to note that a missed period can also be caused by other factors such as stress, hormonal imbalances, or certain medications.

2. Fatigue

Feeling unusually tired or fatigued is another common symptom of pregnancy. This occurs due to the increased levels of progesterone in the body, which can make you feel drowsy and lethargic.

3. Nausea and Morning Sickness

Many pregnant women experience nausea, commonly known as morning sickness. This can occur at any time of the day and is caused by the hormonal changes in the body. Although it is called morning sickness, it can actually last all day.

4. Breast Changes

During pregnancy, your breasts may undergo significant changes. They may become tender, swollen, or feel heavier. The areolas (the area around the nipples) may darken and you may notice visible veins on your breasts.

5. Frequent Urination

Pregnant women often experience an increased need to urinate. This is because pregnancy hormones cause more blood to flow through the kidneys, resulting in more fluid ending up in the bladder.

6. Food Cravings and Aversions

Many women experience intense food cravings or aversions during pregnancy. You may suddenly have a strong desire for certain foods, or find that foods you used to love now make you feel nauseous.

7. Mood Swings

Pregnancy hormones can wreak havoc on your emotions, leading to mood swings. You may feel elated one moment and then tearful the next. These emotional fluctuations are completely normal during pregnancy.

8. Constipation

Changes in hormone levels can lead to slower digestion, causing constipation. This is a common symptom in pregnant women, but it can be managed by drinking plenty of water, eating fiber-rich foods, and staying active.

9. Increased Basal Body Temperature

Tracking your basal body temperature can help you identify if you’re pregnant. If your temperature remains elevated for more than two weeks after ovulation, it could indicate pregnancy.

10. Light Spotting

Some women may experience light spotting, called implantation bleeding, around the time of their expected period. This occurs when the fertilized egg implants itself into the lining of the uterus.

These are just a few of the recognizable symptoms of pregnancy. If you suspect you might be pregnant, it is always best to take a home pregnancy test or consult with your healthcare provider for a definitive answer.