The Most Common Early Signs of Pregnancy
Wondering if you might be pregnant? Your body can give you several clues. While the only way to know for sure is with a pregnancy test, here are some of the most common early symptoms.
1. Missed Period
This is often the first and most reliable sign of pregnancy. If you have a regular menstrual cycle and your period is late, it's a strong indicator that you should take a pregnancy test.
2. Tender, Swollen Breasts
Shortly after conception, hormonal changes can make your breasts feel sore, tender, or tingly. They might also feel fuller and heavier. This is often one of the very first physical signs.
3. Nausea (Morning Sickness)
Despite its name, "morning sickness" can strike at any time of day or night. It usually begins between 2 and 8 weeks after conception and is caused by rising hormone levels, particularly hCG.
4. Fatigue
Feeling unusually tired is a very common early pregnancy symptom. Soaring levels of the hormone progesterone can make you feel sleepy and drained of energy.
5. Frequent Urination
You might find yourself running to the bathroom more often than usual. This is due to the amount of blood in your body increasing, causing your kidneys to process extra fluid that ends up in your bladder.
Other Possible Signs
- Light Spotting (Implantation Bleeding): This can occur when the fertilized egg attaches to the lining of the uterus, usually 10-14 days after conception.
- Food Cravings or Aversions: You might suddenly find yourself craving certain foods or being repulsed by foods you used to love.
- Mood Swings: The flood of hormones in early pregnancy can make you feel unusually emotional or weepy.
Remember, many of these symptoms can be caused by other things. If you suspect you're pregnant, the best next step is to take a home pregnancy test.