Symptoms of Pregnancy: Early Signs to Watch For

Last updated on January 22nd, 2025 at 04:42 pm
Did you know tender breasts or unusual cravings can hint at something? i.e., Pregnancy. Recognizing the early symptoms of pregnancy can help you understand your body’s signals and take the first steps toward this incredible life event.
Whether you’re trying to conceive or suspect gestation and want to have a safe abortion, we will guide you through the most common signs of pregnancy, when to take a test and seek medical advice.
Additional Information:
- Take a pregnancy test after two weeks of missed periods for more accurate results because hormone levels will be higher.
- Home pregnancy test kits are easy to use and affordable, but blood tests and video X-rays done by healthcare professionals can give earlier and more reliable results.
10 Early Symptoms of Pregnancy to Look For
Missing a period is usually the first pregnancy symptom, followed by feeling nauseous (morning sickness) and tired, having sore breasts, or needing to pee more often.
Other pregnancy symptoms include bloating, mood changes, food cravings or dislikes, light spotting, and increased smell sensitivity due to hormonal changes.
1. Missed Period
Missing a period is often the first sign of pregnancy. When fertilization happens, it stops the uterine lining from shedding, which is why menstruation doesn’t occur. If your cycle is regular and you miss a period, take a pregnancy test to confirm.
2. Nausea and Vomiting
Nausea, or “morning sickness,” can begin as early as two weeks after conception and may last through the first trimester. Despite its name, it can happen at any time of day. It’s thought that higher levels of hCG and estrogen cause vomiting.
3. Breast Changes
Women can see changes in their breasts during the pregnancy. They may experience:
- Tenderness: Breasts may feel sore or sensitive to touch.
- Swelling: Increased blood flow can cause breasts to swell.
- Darkening Areolas: The skin around the nipples may darken and enlarge to prepare for breastfeeding.
4. Fatigue
Many women feel exhausted during early pregnancy. It occurs because higher levels of progesterone can make you feel sleepy. Your body is also working hard to support the growing baby, which adds to the fatigue.
5. Frequent Urination
Hormonal changes and raised blood volume during pregnancy can cause you to pee more often. Early on, the growing uterus presses against your bladder, which can cause frequent urination, especially at night.
6. Bloating and Cramping
Early pregnancy can cause bloating and mild cramping, similar to premenstrual symptoms. These cramps are usually less intense than period cramps. The bloating happens because higher progesterone levels slow down digestion.
7. Mood Swings
If you notice frequent mood swings than usual, it may be a sign of pregnancy. It is because hormonal changes can lead to emotional ups and downs. Women might find themselves feeling more emotional or irritable due to changes in hormone levels, particularly estrogen and progesterone.
8. Increased Craving and Smell Sensitivity
Increased craving and smell sensitivity after a missed period can also be a pregnancy sign. Some may crave certain foods while finding others items unappealing. Hormonal shifts influence these changes and can also be a way for the body to seek out nutrients.
9. Spotting or Light Bleeding
Implantation or light bleeding occurs when the fertilized egg attaches to the uterine lining. It usually occurs around 6-12 days after conception. This light spotting is usually much lighter than a regular period. Women can also see mild cramping during this time.
10. Heightened Sense of Smell
Many women notice a stronger sense of smell during early pregnancy. This smell sensitivity can trigger nausea or make certain odors unpleasant. It’s thought to be caused by hormone changes and might help protect against harmful substances.
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Early Pregnancy Symptoms That Need Immediate Medical Attention
Seek medical help from gynecologists or medical experts if you experience severe pain, heavy bleeding, extreme nausea, dizziness, signs of infection like fever, or any serious issues.
- Severe abdominal pain
- Heavy bleeding
- Severe nausea
- Frequent dizziness or fainting
- If you have a fever, chills, or other symptoms.
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Conclusion
Spotting early signs of pregnancy is important for both the mother’s and baby’s health. If you think you’re pregnant, take a test by carefully using a pregnancy test kit or ask your doctor for advice. Additionally, taking care of yourself during this time is key, and getting medical guidance can help you feel confident and supported as you start this journey.
At Clinic One, we focus on your health and well-being. If you think you’re pregnant, book an appointment today for reliable tests and expert care. Call us now at 01-5400400 / 9863393960 or email us at info@clinicone.com.np
FAQs
How early do pregnancy symptoms start?
Pregnancy signs can begin as early as one week after conception. However, many people only notice them after a missed period, usually in the fourth or fifth week of pregnancy.
Can I be pregnant without any symptoms?
Yes, it’s possible to be pregnant without noticing any symptoms. Some people may not show signs until later in their pregnancy, while others may have very mild symptoms they don’t recognize immediately.
What are 100% signs of pregnancy?
The clearest sign of pregnancy is a positive pregnancy test. Other common signs include a missed period, morning sickness, tender breasts, frequent urination, and fatigue. However, these symptoms can differ significantly from person to person.
Can I be three months pregnant and still test negative?
Although rare, it’s possible to get a negative pregnancy test result even if you’re three months pregnant. It usually happens if you test too early or use a less sensitive test.
What are the first-week symptoms of pregnancy?
During the first week of pregnancy, common symptoms include fatigue, light spotting (implantation bleeding), and tender breasts. These signs may appear even before a missed period.
What are the symptoms of pregnancy in the first month?
In the first month of pregnancy, common symptoms include a missed period, nausea (morning sickness), frequent urination, fatigue, and breast changes like tenderness or swelling.
How to use a pregnancy test kit?
To use a home pregnancy test kit, read the instructions included in the kit. Then, follow the below steps.
- Collect Urine: Collect urine in a clean container or hold the absorbent stick directly in your urine stream.
- Apply Sample: Place the collected urine in the test kit’s sample application area. Wait for the results (a few minutes).
- Check the Result: Compare the test result with the control line as the instructions explain.
If the result is positive, consult a healthcare provider to confirm your pregnancy and discuss the next steps.
After how many days pregnancy can be confirmed by urine test?
You can usually confirm pregnancy with a urine test 10-14 days after a missed period. Some tests may detect pregnancy earlier, but testing too soon can also result in false results because of low hCG levels. For more accuracy, use your first-morning urine.
What are the pills to avoid pregnancy after 72 hours of unprotected sex?
Emergency contraceptive pills (ECPs), like levonorgestrel tablets and Ella (ulipristal acetate), help prevent pregnancy after unprotected sex. Levonorgestrel works best within 72 hours after unprotected intercourse. Ella is effective for up to five days after intercourse, even beyond the 72-hour window.