Pregnancy Symptoms: 17 Early Signs of Pregnancy
You might have stopped using birth control, started tracking your cycle, and started trying to conceive. Are you experiencing PMS-like symptoms, or might I be expecting? you might be asking. You might experience certain early pregnancy symptoms, such as smell sensitivity, breast changes, and fatigue before you ever perform a home pregnancy test. It might be challenging to distinguish between these early pregnancy symptoms and those you experience just before your period because many of them are similar. While urinating on a stick and having the findings verified by a doctor are the only surefire ways to find out whether you're expecting, these early signs, some of which might happen before a missing period, may offer hints.
When do Pregnancy Symptoms Start?
Pregnancy symptoms can vary from woman to woman, and the timing of when they start can also differ. Some women may experience symptoms as early as one week after conception, while others may not experience any symptoms until several weeks into their pregnancy.
The most common early pregnancy symptom is a missed period, which can occur as soon as one to two weeks after conception. Other early pregnancy symptoms may include fatigue, nausea and vomiting, breast tenderness and swelling, frequent urination, and mild abdominal cramping.
As the pregnancy progresses, other symptoms may also develop, such as back pain, mood swings, food cravings or aversions, and skin changes. These symptoms can continue throughout the pregnancy and may become more pronounced as the baby grows and the body undergoes further changes.
It's important to note that not all women will experience pregnancy symptoms, and some may experience only a few or none at all. Additionally, some symptoms may be similar to those of other conditions or illnesses, so it's important to consult with a healthcare provider for proper diagnosis and treatment.
17 early pregnancy symptoms are discussed below:
1. Missed period
The most typical indicator of pregnancy is a delayed period. It occurs when a woman's menstrual cycle does not occur at the expected time. Most menstrual cycles last between 21 and 35 days, but some women have cycles that are shorter or longer.
If a woman misses her period and is sexually active, it's possible that she may be pregnant. However, there are other factors that can cause a missed period, including stress, sudden weight gain or loss, excessive exercise, certain medications, and medical conditions such as polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) or thyroid disorders.
If a woman misses her period and suspects she may be pregnant, she should take a pregnancy test to confirm. If the test is positive, she should schedule an appointment with her healthcare provider to begin prenatal care. If the test is negative and her period does not start within a few weeks, she should also consult with her healthcare provider to determine the cause of the missed period.
2. Nausea and vomiting (morning sickness)
Nausea and vomiting, commonly referred to as morning sickness, is a common pregnancy symptom that affects many women in their first trimester. Morning sickness can occur at any time of the day and is not limited to the morning hours.
Although its exact origin is unknown, morning sickness is thought to be a result of the hormonal changes that take place during pregnancy.
The increased levels of hormones, particularly human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) and estrogen can affect the digestive system and cause nausea and vomiting.
While morning sickness can be uncomfortable and unpleasant, it is typically not a cause for concern unless it is severe and accompanied by other symptoms such as dehydration, weight loss, or high fever. Most cases of morning sickness can be managed with dietary changes, such as eating small, frequent meals throughout the day, avoiding foods that trigger nausea, and staying hydrated.
If morning sickness is severe and causing significant discomfort, a woman should consult with her healthcare provider. To control the symptoms, medicine may be suggested in some circumstances.
Related: What Should be the Normal Level of Oxygen in a Person's Blood?
3. Fatigue and tiredness
Fatigue and tiredness are common pregnancy symptoms that affect many women, particularly in the first trimester. The increased levels of hormones, particularly progesterone, can cause feelings of fatigue and drowsiness.
In addition to hormonal changes, the body is also working harder to support the developing fetus, which can also contribute to feelings of fatigue. It's important for pregnant women to get plenty of rest and to listen to their body's signals. This may mean taking naps during the day, going to bed earlier than usual, or simply slowing down and taking it easy.
Women who are experiencing extreme fatigue, however, should consult with their healthcare provider to rule out any underlying medical conditions, such as anemia or thyroid disorders, that may be contributing to their symptoms. In some cases, changes to the diet or medication may be recommended to help manage the symptoms.
4. Breast tenderness and swelling
Breast tenderness and swelling are common pregnancy symptoms that can occur as early as the first few weeks of pregnancy. The increased levels of hormones, particularly estrogen, and progesterone, can cause the breasts to feel sore, tender, and swollen.
In addition to hormonal changes, the body is also preparing for breastfeeding, which can also contribute to breast changes. As the pregnancy progresses, the breasts may continue to enlarge and become more sensitive.
It's important for pregnant women to wear a supportive bra that fits well and provides adequate support. They may also find relief from breast tenderness by applying warm compresses to the breasts or taking a warm bath or shower.
Breast changes are a normal part of pregnancy and are typically not a cause for concern. However, women should consult with their healthcare provider if they experience any unusual or severe breast changes or if they notice any lumps or bumps in their breasts.
5. Frequent urination
Frequent urination is a common pregnancy symptom that occurs due to the increased pressure on the bladder as the uterus expands to accommodate the growing fetus. This symptom typically begins in the first trimester and may continue throughout the pregnancy.
The increased levels of hormones, particularly human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) and estrogen, can also contribute to frequent urination. These hormones increase blood flow to the pelvic area, which can lead to an increased need to urinate.
While frequent urination is a normal part of pregnancy, it's important for pregnant women to stay hydrated and drink plenty of fluids. They should also avoid caffeine and other diuretics, which can worsen the symptom.
Women who experience pain or discomfort while urinating, have blood in their urine, or have other unusual urinary symptoms should consult with their healthcare provider to rule out any urinary tract infections or other medical conditions.
6. Constipation
Constipation is a common pregnancy symptom that can occur due to the hormonal changes and increased pressure on the digestive system as the uterus expands to accommodate the growing fetus. The increased levels of progesterone, a hormone that relaxes smooth muscles throughout the body, including those in the digestive tract, can slow down the movement of food through the intestines, leading to constipation.
To help prevent constipation, pregnant women should drink plenty of water and other fluids, eat a high-fiber diet that includes plenty of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains, and engage in regular physical activity, such as walking or swimming.
If constipation does occur, over-the-counter stool softeners or laxatives may be recommended by a healthcare provider. However, pregnant women should always consult with their healthcare provider before taking any medication, including over-the-counter medications.
It's important for pregnant women to address constipation as soon as possible, as prolonged constipation can lead to hemorrhoids, anal fissures, and other uncomfortable and painful conditions.
7. Mood swings
Mood swings are a common pregnancy symptom that can be caused by the hormonal changes that occur during pregnancy. The increased levels of hormones, particularly estrogen and progesterone, can affect a woman's mood and emotions.
In addition to hormonal changes, pregnancy can also be a time of stress and anxiety, which can contribute to mood swings. Women may experience feelings of excitement and joy one moment, and then feel anxious, irritable, or weepy the next.
To help manage mood swings, pregnant women can try engaging in relaxation techniques such as deep breathing exercises, yoga, or meditation. It's also important to get plenty of rest, eat a healthy diet, and engage in regular physical activity.
Women who are experiencing severe or persistent mood swings should consult with their healthcare provider. In some cases, counseling or medication may be recommended to help manage the symptoms.
8. Food cravings or aversions
Food cravings and aversions are common pregnancy symptoms that can occur due to hormonal changes and other physiological factors. Many women experience intense cravings for certain foods, while others develop a sudden aversion to foods they once enjoyed.
The exact cause of food cravings and aversions during pregnancy is not fully understood, but it's thought to be related to the hormonal changes that occur during pregnancy. For example, the increased levels of estrogen and progesterone can affect a woman's sense of smell and taste, making certain foods more or less appealing.
To manage food cravings and aversions, pregnant women should try to eat a well-balanced diet that includes plenty of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins. They should also try to avoid consuming excessive amounts of unhealthy or processed foods, which can contribute to weight gain and other health problems.
If a pregnant woman is experiencing a persistent craving for a certain food that is not nutritionally balanced or safe to eat during pregnancy, she should consult with her healthcare provider to discuss possible alternatives or strategies to manage the cravings.
It's important for pregnant women to remember that food cravings and aversions are a normal part of pregnancy and that it's okay to indulge in a craving occasionally as long as it's done in moderation and in a safe and healthy manner.
9. Headaches
Headaches are a common pregnancy symptom that can occur due to the hormonal changes, changes in blood circulation, and other physiological factors that occur during pregnancy. Many women experience headaches in the first trimester, but they can occur at any time during pregnancy.
Pregnant women are also more susceptible to tension headaches and migraines due to the physical and emotional stress of pregnancy, changes in sleep patterns, and changes in dietary habits.
To help manage headaches during pregnancy, pregnant women can try to get plenty of rest, stay hydrated, eat a well-balanced diet, and engage in regular physical activity. They should also avoid trigger foods or drinks, such as caffeine, alcohol, and processed foods, that can contribute to headaches.
If a pregnant woman experiences a headache that is severe, persistent, or accompanied by other symptoms such as vision changes or high blood pressure, she should seek medical attention immediately, since they might indicate a more serious medical issue.
In some cases, healthcare providers may recommend medications such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen for headaches during pregnancy. However, pregnant women should always consult with their healthcare provider before taking any medication, including over-the-counter medications.
10. Dizziness or lightheadedness
Dizziness or lightheadedness is a common pregnancy symptom that can occur due to the hormonal changes and increased blood volume that occur during pregnancy. These changes can cause blood vessels to dilate, which can lead to a drop in blood pressure and decreased blood flow to the brain, resulting in feelings of dizziness or lightheadedness.
In addition to hormonal changes, dizziness or lightheadedness during pregnancy can also be caused by other factors such as dehydration, low blood sugar, or standing up too quickly.
To help manage dizziness or lightheadedness during pregnancy, pregnant women should try to get plenty of rest, stay hydrated, eat a well-balanced diet that includes plenty of iron-rich foods, and avoid standing up or changing positions too quickly. Wearing compression stockings or support hose can also help improve circulation and reduce feelings of dizziness or lightheadedness.
If dizziness or lightheadedness is severe or persistent, pregnant women should consult with their healthcare provider, as this can be a sign of an underlying medical condition. In some cases, healthcare providers may recommend medications or other treatments to help manage the symptoms.
11. Back pain
Back pain is a common pregnancy symptom that can occur due to the physical changes and hormonal fluctuations that occur during pregnancy. As the uterus expands, it can put pressure on the lower back, causing pain and discomfort.
In addition to physical changes, hormonal fluctuations during pregnancy can also contribute to back pain. The increased levels of the hormone relaxin, which helps prepare the body for childbirth by relaxing the ligaments and joints in the pelvis, can also affect other joints in the body, including the back, and make them more susceptible to strain and injury.
To help manage back pain during pregnancy, pregnant women can try gentle exercises such as prenatal yoga or walking to strengthen the muscles in the back and improve flexibility. They can also use heat or cold therapy, take warm baths or showers, and use pillows or cushions to support the lower back and hips.
If back pain is severe or persistent, pregnant women should consult with their healthcare provider. In some cases, healthcare providers may recommend physical therapy or other treatments to help manage the symptoms. They may also recommend over-the-counter pain relievers that are safe to use during pregnancy. However, pregnant women should always consult with their healthcare provider before taking any medication.
12. Abdominal cramps or bloating
Abdominal cramps or bloating are common pregnancy symptoms that can occur due to the physical changes that occur during pregnancy. As the uterus expands, it can put pressure on the abdomen, causing discomfort and bloating.
In addition to physical changes, hormonal fluctuations during pregnancy can also contribute to abdominal cramps and bloating. The increased levels of the hormone progesterone can cause the muscles in the gastrointestinal tract to relax, which can slow down digestion and lead to constipation and bloating.
To help manage abdominal cramps and bloating during pregnancy, pregnant women can try to eat small, frequent meals throughout the day, avoid foods that are known to cause gas or bloating, such as beans or cabbage, and stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water.
Gentle exercises, such as walking or prenatal yoga, can also help improve digestion and reduce abdominal discomfort. If abdominal cramps or bloating are severe or persistent, pregnant women should consult with their healthcare provider, as this can be a sign of an underlying medical condition.
In some cases, healthcare providers may recommend medications or other treatments to help manage the symptoms. However, pregnant women should always consult with their healthcare provider before taking any medication, including over-the-counter medications.
13. Darkening of the nipples or areolas
Darkening of the nipples or areolas is a common pregnancy symptom that can occur due to hormonal changes that occur during pregnancy. The increased levels of the hormone estrogen can cause the skin around the nipples and areolas to darken, become more pigmented, and develop small bumps.
In addition to hormonal changes, darkening of the nipples or areolas can also occur due to increased blood flow to the breasts, which can cause the veins in the area to become more visible.
While darkening of the nipples or areolas is a normal pregnancy symptom, pregnant women should still monitor any changes to their breasts and nipples, as these can also be signs of other conditions, such as breast infections or tumors.
To help manage the discomfort that can occur with darkening of the nipples or areolas, pregnant women can try wearing a supportive bra that fits properly and provides adequate support. They can also use lanolin cream or other moisturizers to help alleviate dryness and itching.
If pregnant women have any concerns about changes to their breasts or nipples, they should consult with their healthcare provider. Regular breast exams and mammograms are important for women of all ages, including pregnant women.
14. Increased vaginal discharge
Increased vaginal discharge is a common pregnancy symptom that occurs due to hormonal changes that occur during pregnancy. The increased levels of the hormone estrogen can cause the glands in the cervix to produce more mucus, leading to an increase in vaginal discharge.
While increased vaginal discharge is a normal pregnancy symptom, pregnant women should still monitor any changes to their vaginal discharge, as these can also be signs of other conditions, such as infections or sexually transmitted diseases.
To help manage the discomfort that can occur with increased vaginal discharge, pregnant women can wear cotton underwear and avoid wearing tight-fitting clothing. They can also practice good hygiene, such as wiping from front to back after using the bathroom and washing the genital area with mild soap and water.
If pregnant women have any concerns about changes to their vaginal discharge, they should consult with their healthcare provider. In some cases, healthcare providers may recommend medications or other treatments to help manage the symptoms or prevent infections.
15. Shortness of breath
Shortness of breath is a common pregnancy symptom that can occur due to the physical changes that occur during pregnancy. It may become challenging to take deep breaths as the uterus grows and pushes up against the ribcage.
In addition to physical changes, hormonal fluctuations during pregnancy can also contribute to shortness of breath. The increased levels of the hormone progesterone can cause the respiratory rate to increase, leading to a feeling of breathlessness.
To help manage shortness of breath during pregnancy, pregnant women can try to sit or stand in an upright position, practice breathing exercises, and avoid exerting themselves too much. They can also use pillows to prop themselves up at night and improve their breathing.
If shortness of breath is severe or persistent, pregnant women should consult with their healthcare provider. In some cases, healthcare providers may recommend tests or treatments to rule out any underlying medical conditions, such as asthma or heart disease, that may be contributing to the symptoms.
16. Swelling of the hands and feet
Swelling of the hands and feet, also known as edema, is a common pregnancy symptom that occurs due to the physical changes that occur during pregnancy. As the uterus expands, it can put pressure on the blood vessels that carry blood to and from the legs and feet, causing fluid to accumulate in the tissues.
In addition to physical changes, hormonal fluctuations during pregnancy can also contribute to swelling of the hands and feet. The increased levels of the hormone progesterone can cause the walls of the blood vessels to relax, which can increase the risk of fluid retention.
To help manage swelling of the hands and feet during pregnancy, pregnant women can try to elevate their legs whenever possible, wear comfortable shoes that provide adequate support, and avoid standing or sitting for long periods of time. They can also drink plenty of water to help flush excess fluids from their body and avoid salty or processed foods that can contribute to fluid retention.
If swelling of the hands and feet is severe or accompanied by other symptoms, such as headache or high blood pressure, pregnant women should consult with their healthcare provider. In some cases, healthcare providers may recommend tests or treatments to rule out any underlying medical conditions, such as preeclampsia, that may be contributing to the symptoms.
17. Skin changes, such as acne or darkening of the skin
Skin changes are common pregnancy symptoms that occur due to hormonal changes that take place during pregnancy. Some common skin changes that pregnant women may experience include:
- Acne: Due to increased levels of androgen hormones, pregnant women may experience acne breakouts.
- Darkening of the skin: The increased levels of the hormone estrogen can cause the skin to darken or become more pigmented, especially around the face, neck, and nipples.
- Stretch marks: As the skin stretches to accommodate the growing uterus, it can result in stretch marks on the abdomen, hips, and thighs.
- Linea nigra: A dark line that can appear on the abdomen during pregnancy, running from the navel to the pubic area.
- Skin tags: Small, harmless growths on the skin that can appear during pregnancy, especially in areas of friction, such as the neck or underarms.
To manage these skin changes, pregnant women can practice good skin hygiene, use gentle cleansers and moisturizers, avoid picking or squeezing acne lesions, and protect their skin from the sun with sunscreen and protective clothing.
If pregnant women have any concerns about changes to their skin, they should consult with their healthcare provider. In some cases, healthcare providers may recommend medications or other treatments to help manage the symptoms.
When can I take a home Pregnancy Test?
The hormone human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG), which is present in a woman's urine, is what makes home pregnancy tests work. After a fertilized egg implants in the uterus, the placenta releases this hormone.
Most home pregnancy tests are highly accurate when used correctly, and they can detect hCG levels in a woman's urine as early as 1-2 weeks after a missed period. Some tests may even be able to detect hCG levels a few days before a missed period.
However, the accuracy of the test can depend on several factors, including the sensitivity of the test, the timing of the test, and how it is used. For the most accurate results, it is recommended to wait until after a missed period before taking a home pregnancy test.
If you take a home pregnancy test too early, you may get a false negative result, which means the test indicates that you are not pregnant even though you are. To get the most accurate result, follow the instructions on the test carefully and take the test at the appropriate time. If you are uncertain about the timing of the test or the results, you should consult with your healthcare provider.
Conclusion
Pregnant women can manage these symptoms by practicing good self-care, such as getting adequate rest, staying hydrated, eating a healthy diet, and engaging in regular physical activity. They can also consult with their healthcare provider if they have concerns or experience severe or persistent symptoms. With proper care and attention, many of these symptoms can be managed and do not have to interfere with a healthy pregnancy.
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