Chinese version: 怀孕的早期迹象

Am I Pregnant ?

First Signs of Pregnancy

One of the most significant first signs of pregnancy is a delayed period but there are more early signs and symptoms of pregnancy that you should know about. First signs of pregnancy can differ from woman to woman, from pregnancy to pregnancy and can also vary in their intensity, frequency and duration.

Below is a list of all common first signs of pregnancy:

Delay or Missed Period

Probably the most common first sign of pregnancy is when you missed your period.
This is the early sign that leads a woman to test for pregnancy. There are women who bleed while they are pregnant, usually the bleeding will be shorter or lighter than in a normal period.

Implantation Bleeding - Slight bleeding or cramping

This is also one of the early signs of pregnancy but less common than the first.
About 6-12 days after conception, the fertilized egg implants itself into the uterus which can cause a slight bleeding and spotting.

Swollen or Tender Breasts

One of the obvious early signs of pregnancy are swollen or tender breasts. This sign may begin as early as 1-2 weeks after conception. You may notice some changes in your breasts, they may become tender to the touch, sore, or swollen. You may also notice that the skin around your nipples gets darker.

Fatigue

You may feel fatigued or tired as early as the first week after conception. The reasons for that are body changes plus the increasing levels of hormones. After the first trimester you may feel better and have more energy.

Nausea or Morning Sickness

Morning sickness refers to the nausea and vomiting that some women have when they become pregnant. Although these symptoms usually occur in the mornings they can last all day.The reason for these symptoms is a sudden increase in hormones during the pregnancy. Learn more how to help relieve morning sickness.

Low Back Pain

Low back pain may be a fiest sign of pregnancy; however, it is more common to experience a dull backache throughout pregnancy.

Headaches

You may have more headaches early in pregnancy due to the increasing level of hormones.

Frequent Urination

You may notice you make a few extra trips to bathroom during the 6-8 weeks after conception. The reason for this symptom is that your uterus swells and puts pressure on your bladder.

Food Cravings or Food Aversions

Some women will feel carvings for certain foods while other develop aversions when they are pregnant. This sign can last throughout the entire pregnancy.

Dizziness

You might feel lightheaded or dizzy because your blood pressure may drop down in pregnancy. You may also feel you are going to faint due to the low blood sugar levels. In order to keep your blood sugar level up, eat frequent, healthy snacks.

Mood swings or Irritability

You may have mood swings and even feel mixed emotions such as excitement and depression, joy and sorrow, laughter and tears. It is perfectly normal to feel that way due to the increase of hormones in the beginning of pregnancy. Share your feelings with your partner and ask for his support and understanding.

Constipation

An increasing level of hormones (progesterone) causes food to pass more slowly through the intestines, thus leading to constipation early in pregnancy. This can also be exacerbated by prenatal vitamins containing iron.

If you are experiencing any of the symptoms and have been sexually active check if you are pregnant and take a pregnancy test.

You may also find the following books helpful:

What to Expect When You're Expecting	Mayo Clinic Guide to a Healthy Pregnancy	Taking Charge of Your Fertility

Return from First Signs of Pregnancy to Pregnancy Week by Week

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