11 common signs of pregnancy

11 Common Signs of Pregnancy

There are two ways to find out if you are pregnant. You can take pregnancy tests, or you can get an ultrasound. But, there are things that the tiny changes called pregnancy hormones do in your body that give you signs of pregnancy. Many women first notice symptoms of early pregnancy when they miss more than one period. These early signs of pregnancy can be morning sickness, being sensitive to smell, always feeling tired, and frequent urination.

It might seem odd, but the first week of pregnancy is counted from the last time you had your period. This means the last menstrual period is actually the first week of pregnancy. Doctors use the first day of the last menstrual period to work out the expected delivery date and often recommend using a pregnancy due date calculator for accuracy. This is why the first weeks of pregnancy are often before you have any symptoms. You may not notice any changes, like difference in vaginal discharge or light vaginal bleeding, yet these still count as the early weeks of pregnancy.

The first signs of pregnancy can show up in the first weeks after fertilization. Here are 11 signs of pregnancy you may notice:

1-Delayed menstruation

Delayed periods are often the first sign of pregnancy in women who have tried to have a baby. The best thing to do is get a baby check-up about a week after your period is late. It is even better to visit your doctor for a blood test to confirm the results. A positive pregnancy test can also happen when you do a lot of exercise, as excessive exercise can make you miss your period too. Therefore, be sure to take a pregnancy test and consult your doctor if you have any concerns.

After implantation, a woman’s body begins to produce a hormone called hCG (human chorionic gonadotropin). This hormone helps the body maintain the pregnancy. It also causes the ovaries to stop producing eggs. However, symptoms like sore breasts can be caused by pregnancy hormones. Still, they may also occur due to other factors such as hormonal changes related to the menstrual cycle, stress, or certain medications. Sore breasts alone do not always mean someone is pregnant.

Women often get delayed periods about four weeks when they are pregnant. If the menstrual cycle is not regular, it is good to use a pregnancy test to be sure. Most home tests can pick up hCG if there is an eight-day gap in the menstrual cycle. A pregnancy test finds hCG levels in urine and lets you know if you are pregnant during this early stage.

2-spotting

During the first four weeks, all things take place at a trim, cell level. The fertilized egg develops and transforms into a structure known as a blastocyst. This blastocyst is a ball of cells surrounded by fluid. It begins to develop into the organs your body needs, and sometimes during this time, people may experience food cravings.

In the fourth week, which is around 10 to 14 days after conception, the blastocyst sticks to the lining of your uterus. This is when implantation happens. You may see implantation bleeding at this time. This bleeding is not the same as a mild menstrual period.

Here are some signs of implant bleeding:

Color

Implantation bleeding usually looks like light pink or brown spotting. It is much lighter than your period. This bleeding happens when a fertilized egg attaches to the lining of the uterus after sexual intercourse. It often shows up about 6 to 12 days after the fertilized egg attaches. The spotting is not heavy. It may last only a few hours or up to two days.

Bleeding

The amount of bleeding during implantation bleeding is often much less than what you have in your normal period. You may notice this as light bleeding or just a small bit of blood. The color can be pink or sometimes dark brown. This spotting usually does not last long. It is often over in less than three days. For most people, it stops on its own and does not need any medical treatment.

For more information, read:

Pregnancy Information, everything You Need to Know

3-Muscle cramps and Pain

A study of 4,539 women found that 28% experienced spotting, often accompanied by pain ranging from mild to severe. This suggests that spotting is a common occurrence and often accompanied by discomfort. Causes may include hormonal changes, ovulation, early pregnancy, or gynecological conditions like PCOS, endometriosis, or infections. Since pain intensity varies widely, these symptoms can range from minor to disruptive. The findings highlight the need for medical evaluation if spotting and pain are recurrent or severe. Monitoring menstrual changes and reporting any unusual symptoms to a healthcare provider is crucial for timely diagnosis and effective care.

4-Increase in body temperature and fatigue

An increase in your basal body temperature can be one of the early pregnancy symptoms. This can help support a healthy pregnancy. You may notice that the temperature in the middle of your body rises faster when you exercise or when it is hot outside. At this time, be sure to drink more water and consider incorporating folic acid into your daily routine. Additionally, it is advisable to exercise with caution during early pregnancy.

Feeling tired is a big part of early pregnancy. It can happen at any time. A rise in progesterone during this time is known to make you feel sleepy, as your body is preparing to support your growing baby. This is something most people experience in the early weeks of pregnancy.

5-Shortness of breath

One thing many women ask is whether shortness of breath or nasal congestion is an early sign or symptom of pregnancy. The answer is yes. Shortness of breath can be one of the symptoms of pregnancy. This can happen because there are changes in the lining of your uterus.

If you find it hard to breathe as you go up stairs, this could be a sign that you are pregnant. When you are pregnant, your growing baby needs oxygen. This means the oxygen is shared between you and the baby throughout your pregnancy. As your baby gets bigger, it presses on your lungs and diaphragm. This can make it harder for you to take deep breaths. The extra pressure might also change your blood pressure and the amount of blood in your circulatory system, which can make your digestive system work differently.

Some people feel sore breasts at the start of pregnancy. But sore breasts do not always mean that you are pregnant. A missed period or sore breasts can happen because of hormonal changes, your period, or other things that are not linked to being pregnant.

6-Nausea

Nausea is a sign of pregnancy. Pregnant women may feel nausea in different ways. Some feel nausea and have tender breasts after the sixth week. Others feel morning sickness, which can happen at any time of day. Morning sickness may show up before the sixth week. A few may feel abdominal pain with pregnancy nausea, and in some cases, this could be indicative of hyperemesis gravidarum. This often gets better in the second trimester. It is good to eat foods that are easier on your stomach at this time.

7-Change in appetite, constipation, and bloating

During pregnancy, you may feel a strong want for some foods and a dislike for others. A metallic taste in your mouth can also show up during this time. This is often a sign of pregnancy. The body can try to tell you when you are pregnant in that way. It is good to take a prenatal vitamin every day, since it helps with the baby’s growth and development.

The feeling you get from bloating happens during pregnancy because your body makes more of the progesterone hormone. This hormone works to slow down how your stomach and digestive system move. As a result, you may get constipation.

Month-By-Month Stages Of Pregnancy

8-Breast changes

During a new pregnancy, you might notice your breasts feel fuller. They can be swollen and tender. This often feels like the changes you get when you have your period. The skin around the nipple gets darker too. You can see the veins on your breasts better. This all starts when the fertilized egg attaches to the lining of the uterus, and your body begins to adapt to the new pregnancy hormone levels.

9-Hemorrhoids (piles)

Some women can get hemorrhoids. These are also called piles. It happens when you hold back from constipation or feel pressure from the growing baby in your stomach. The amount of blood in the body, especially in cases of iron deficiency, also has something to do with it. But do not worry about this problem. The symptoms will go away on their own after you have your baby.

If you have bleeding, itching, feel uncomfortable, or feel pain from hemorrhoids, you should:

Increase your daily intake of water and fiber.

Sit in warm salt water for 15 minutes.

Use hemorrhoid cream.

If you still have bleeding or feel pain, talk to your doctor.

10-Mood swings in pregnancy

Changes in mood or behavior, as well as temporary weight gain, are often caused by normal hormonal fluctuations due to stress, sleep patterns, diet, menstrual cycles, puberty, pregnancy, or medication. These shifts can impact water retention and fat storage, resulting in temporary weight gain and occasional mood fluctuations.

Typically, these changes are part of the body’s natural processes and aren’t cause for concern. Staying hydrated, eating well, sleeping enough, and exercising regularly can help minimize their effects.

If you experience persistent mood changes or ongoing unexplained weight gain, consult a healthcare professional to rule out underlying conditions like thyroid or metabolic disorders. In most cases, such symptoms are brief and not alarming unless they persist or disrupt daily life.

For more information, read:

How to Manage Pregnancy Mood Swings?

11-Odor sensitivity

If you feel that some smells are worse for you, or if you feel like you have allergies to certain odors, you may be having a baby. This is common because pregnancy can cause nasal congestion and allergic reactions to many smells. Hormonal changes in the body often make the sense of smell stronger, leading to a heightened sense of smell that can make nausea or feel sick from certain foods even worse.

These are only some of the symptoms of pregnancy. Of course, there are many other symptoms out there. It would not be possible to list everyone in this article.

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Is there Increased urination and urinary changes during pregnancy?

Frequent urination is a common early pregnancy symptom that many women experience as early as the first trimester. As the body adjusts to support the developing fetus, it produces additional blood and fluids, which puts extra strain on the kidneys. Consequently, the kidneys work harder to filter this increased volume, resulting in more frequent trips to the bathroom. This change, including frequent urination, can be particularly noticeable during the nighttime hours, causing many pregnant individuals to wake up more often to urinate. It’s essential for expectant mothers to stay well-hydrated by consuming fluids, especially milk and other dairy products, as dehydration can lead to complications.

Urinary changes can also manifest in other ways during early pregnancy symptoms. Pregnant women may notice alterations in the color or odor of their urine, which can be caused by hormonal fluctuations and dietary changes. The amount of blood in your body increases during pregnancy, leading to changes in urination patterns. While these changes are typically harmless, any unusual symptoms, such as a burning sensation or cloudy urine, could indicate a urinary tract infection (UTI). It’s crucial to consult with a healthcare professional if these symptoms arise, as untreated UTIs can lead to complications during pregnancy.

Vaginal discharge and changes

During pregnancy, many women experience an increase in vaginal discharge, which is often a normal phenomenon caused by heightened estrogen levels. This vaginal discharge can appear milky white and may be thicker than usual. It plays a protective role by helping to prevent infections in the birth canal and ensures a healthy environment for the developing fetus. However, if the vaginal discharge becomes accompanied by unpleasant odors, itching, or irritation, it could signal an infection that requires medical attention.

In addition to the changes in discharge, pregnant women may notice fluctuations in the consistency and volume of vaginal secretions throughout their pregnancy. These changes can vary depending on the stage of pregnancy, with some women experiencing more noticeable differences during the first trimester, especially as the fertilized egg implants into the lining of your uterus. One common early sign of pregnancy is these changes in vaginal discharge. Keeping track of these changes can help expectant mothers differentiate between normal pregnancy symptoms and potential health issues. If any concerns arise regarding vaginal discharge, it is advisable to consult a healthcare provider for guidance and reassurance.

Heartburn and acidity during pregnancy

Heartburn and acidity are common pregnancy symptoms, particularly during the first trimester when hormonal changes can significantly impact the digestive system. The hormone progesterone relaxes the muscles in the gastrointestinal tract, which can lead to slower digestion, increased acid reflux, and tender breasts. Pregnant women may find themselves experiencing a burning sensation in the chest or throat, especially after meals or when lying down, and sometimes they may also notice a metallic taste in their mouth.

To manage heartburn and acidity, it is advisable to eat smaller, more frequent meals and avoid spicy or fatty foods that can exacerbate the symptoms. Incorporating dairy products can also be beneficial for some individuals. Staying upright after eating and using pillows to elevate the upper body while sleeping can also provide relief. If heartburn persists or becomes severe, medical consultation is recommended for possible treatment options, ensuring a comfortable pregnancy experience. Additionally, using a pregnancy due date calculator can help expectant mothers track their progress.

When to take a pregnancy test and consult a doctor?

If you suspect you might be pregnant due to missed periods or early pregnancy symptoms, it’s essential to take a home pregnancy test. Home pregnancy tests are generally reliable and can provide accurate results as early as the first day of a missed period. However, for the most accurate results, it is often recommended to wait a week after the missed period. If you receive a positive home pregnancy test result, you should schedule an appointment with your healthcare provider to confirm the pregnancy and begin prenatal care. A missed period can be a significant indicator of pregnancy and should be taken seriously.

When consulting a doctor, they may perform a blood test to measure levels of human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG), the hormone produced during pregnancy. This test can detect pregnancy earlier than urine tests and provide vital information about the gestational age. Additionally, during your appointment, you can discuss any concerns, receive recommendations for a daily prenatal vitamin, including folic acid, and learn more about maintaining a healthy pregnancy.

Final Words

Recognizing the early signs of pregnancy is crucial for every woman who is trying to conceive. From missed periods to changes in appetite and mood, these symptoms can help identify early pregnancy. Early detection allows for timely medical care, including a urine test, and necessary lifestyle adjustments, ensuring the health and well-being of both mother and baby. If you suspect you might be pregnant, don’t hesitate to take a test to avoid a potential false negative result, and reach out to your healthcare provider for guidance and support during this exciting journey.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I tell if I’m pregnant without a test?

If you are trying to determine the best way to know if you are pregnant without taking a test, paying attention to your body can offer clues for a healthy pregnancy. Common early signs include missed periods, changes in appetite, and increased sensitivity to smells. You may also notice symptoms like fatigue, bloating, or breast tenderness, which are often associated with hormonal changes during pregnancy.

Tracking your menstrual cycle can help you identify any irregularities that may indicate a healthy pregnancy. If you notice a combination of these symptoms, it may be time to consider taking a pregnancy test or a urine test, or consulting with a healthcare professional for more guidance. Additionally, maintaining a healthy lifestyle and nourishing your body can support your overall well-being as you navigate this journey.

What was your absolute first sign of pregnancy?

Every woman’s experience with pregnancy is unique, and the first signs can vary widely. For some, the absolute first sign may be a missed period, while others might notice changes in their breasts, increased fatigue, or heightened senses. It’s not uncommon for women to experience subtle signs, such as slight cramping or abdominal pain, including abdominal pain, mood swings, before realizing they are pregnant.

Reflecting on your own experiences and recognizing these early indicators can be empowering. Whether it’s the anticipation of a missed period or the excitement of feeling those first physical changes in your body due to shifting hormone levels, understanding your symptoms can help you prepare for the next steps in your pregnancy journey.

When do pregnancy symptoms start?

Pregnancy symptoms can begin as early as one week after conception, but they are most commonly noticed around the time of a missed period. Some women may experience early signs of early pregnancy, such as fatigue, nausea, and breast tenderness, even before they take a test. For many, the first noticeable changes occur within the first four to six weeks of pregnancy, aligning with hormonal fluctuations and changes in hormone levels in the body.

Monitoring your symptoms during this time can provide insights into your new pregnancy status. If you suspect you are pregnant, tracking these signs and consulting with a healthcare provider can help ensure a healthy pregnancy journey and receive proper prenatal care.

Are mood swings among common signs of pregnancy?

Vaginal discharge can undergo noticeable changes during early pregnancy, often appearing more abundant or altered in color and consistency. These changes are primarily driven by hormonal fluctuations, specifically the rise of pregnancy hormones, which affect the vaginal environment. Some women may experience a milky, white vaginal discharge, which is considered normal. However, if there’s a change in odor or the presence of unusual colors, such as green or yellow, it could indicate an infection or other medical issue, warranting a consultation with a healthcare provider.

What are the symptoms of pregnancy within 20 days?

Observing the color of vaginal discharge can provide insights into early pregnancy symptoms. A creamy, milky white discharge, often a result of hormonal changes, is common during this stage. Alternatively, a light pink or brown discharge may indicate implantation bleeding or light vaginal bleeding, which occurs when the fertilized egg attaches to the lining of your uterus. Staying aware of these changes helps in assessing signs of pregnancy. Tracking these details in relation to menstrual cycles can aid in understanding your body’s unique responses.