Every woman is different, as well as every woman’s pregnancy experience. The only way to truly know if you’re pregnant or not is to take a pregnancy test. A lot of these symptoms are associated with other things as well, so noticing any of them does not mean you’re pregnant. Again, take a pregnancy test or talk to your doctor as soon as you can. In the meantime, here are some things to lookout for that could be an indication that you’re pregnant.
Period-Like Symptoms
Ironically, many women experience period-like symptoms very early on in pregnancy. After conception, the fertilized egg attaches itself to the wall of the uterus, which can cause cramping that closely resembles menstrual cramps. It can also cause spotting, which can mimic a regular (or maybe lighter-than-usual) period. This is called implantation bleeding and can happen anywhere from six to 12 days after fertilization.
Some women may also notice white, milky discharge, which is a result of the vagina walls thickening after fertilization. This usually starts immediately after conception. The discharge will continue throughout pregnancy, but shouldn’t be any concern. If this discharge is accompanied by burning or itching, definitely consult you doctor because this could be a sign of bacterial infection.
Breast Changes
You may notice that your breasts are swollen, tender, or tingly a week or so after conception. They may feel fuller, heavier, or sore in general due to hormonal changes in the early stages of pregnancy. The area around your nipples, or your areolas, may darken in color too. It may take a few weeks, but your breast pain should ease with time.
Fatigue
Feeling exhausted is really common throughout pregnancy, even at the very beginning. You could start feeling fatigued in as little as one week after conception due to the high level of progesterone, or the pregnancy hormone. This is, of course, a symptom that could be linked to all sorts of different things—low blood pressure, low blood sugar, or an increase in blood production could all contribute to feeling extra tired. Whatever the cause, make sure you’re getting plenty of rest and that you’re eating foods rich in protein and iron.
Morning Sickness
Probably the most famous symptom of pregnancy, morning sickness can start almost immediately, although not every woman will experience it. The actual cause of morning sickness isn’t known, but it’s believed to be a result, like most symptoms, of all the hormone changes your body is going through.
You may find yourself gagging at food you used to love, or craving foods you hated before! Pay attention to your cravings and aversions, as even just smelling something could be enough to turn your stomach. Though the name implies that it just happens in the morning, women can experience this for their entire pregnancies. For most women, it subsides around the 13 or 14 week mark. Eating carefully and thoughtfully is the best cure for this symptom.
Missed Period
One of the most obvious early signs of pregnancy is a missed period. However, nothing is certain when it comes to your body—not all missed periods are a sign of pregnancy, and not all women stop bleeding when they’re pregnant. Talk to your doctor about bleeding during pregnancy, so you know how much to expect and when to be concerned.
Other, very common reasons for a missed period include:
- Gaining or losing weight
- Unrelated hormonal issues
- Fatigue
- Stress
- Quitting birth control
If you missed your last period, consider these options before jumping to any conclusions. Take a test or talk to your doctor to ease your mind!
Other Symptoms
Around six to eight weeks after conception, you could start urinating more frequently. This could be caused by a myriad of things, but it’s common in pregnancy due to fluctuating hormone levels.
That pesky pregnancy hormone progesterone could also make you constipated, because it causes food to pass more slowly through your digestive tract. Eating plenty of foods that are high in fiber will help! You can also talk to your doctor about laxative options, if necessary.
Because hormones cause nearly every symptom in pregnancy, you may notice some intense mood swings. These are the most common during the first trimester.
You may also find that, in addition to feeling fatigued, you’re feeling dizzy. Again, make sure you’re getting plenty of rest and that you aren’t doing too much—your body is going through a lot!
If you’re worried or anxious that you might be pregnant, the best thing you can do is to talk to your doctor or take a pregnancy test.
After Detecting the Early Signs
For expert maternity care, contact Regional Medical Center today!