If you’ve been trying to conceive for a few months then being hyper-alert to changes in your body or symptoms which may signal that you’re pregnant is only natural. The two weeks between when you ovulate and when your period is due (known as the ‘two week wait’) can feel like forever, especially if you’re waiting to take a pregnancy test.
Below are early signs or symptoms of pregnancy that may occur in the beginning stages of pregnancy. These symptoms are different for each person and each pregnancy, and may not occur at all. Symptoms are caused by hormonal changes during pregnancy that increase to support a baby. Some of these symptoms develop later in your first trimester and may continue into pregnancy, but some are noticeable as early as 2 weeks after conception, even before you miss your period.
Some women feel in tune with their body and “just know” when they’re pregnant. Even if you experience these symptoms, the only way to confirm that you’re pregnant is with a pregnancy test.
1. Missed period
Some cycles differ by a few days each cycle, even if your cycles are regular. My cycle is regular, averaging 30 days but each month it ranges between 28 and 32 days. If your periods are irregular then it can be hard to notice that your period is delayed. Your period can also be delayed due to weight loss or gain, illness or stress.
2. Implantation bleeding or spotting
A fertilised egg will attach or ‘burrow’ into the lining of the uterus, a process known as implantation. Because this spotting is usually a few days before a period is due, it is easily confused for the start of a period. However, implantation bleeding tends to be lighter flow than a period, pink or dark brown in colour and may only be for 1-2 days.
3. Nausea and/or vomiting
Although nausea and vomiting during pregnancy can occur at any time of the day, morning nausea is more common, thus it’s commonly known as ‘morning sickness’. Nausea is most common during the first trimester, and usually disappears in the second trimester.
4. Breast changes
Your breasts can become fuller, swollen, painful to touch, more sensitive or tender. The areolas (the circle area around your nipples) may be darker.
5. Tiredness or fatigue
Your body is working extra hard to maintain pregnancy and create changes in your body to support a baby.
6. Cramps
In addition to spotting during implantation, cramps may be felt in the lower back, abdomen or pelvis area.
7. Mood changes
You may become more emotional or upset, or happy and excited.
8. Frequent urination
Early pregnancy causes an increase in blood flow to the kidneys which makes the kidneys produce more urine. These changes along with hormonal changes can make pregnant women have the urge to wee often.
9. Constipation or bloating
During pregnancy, digestion can slow down which can cause constipation, bloating or gas.
10. Food cravings or aversions
Pregnancy cravings are so varied and personal. They can be kind of weird too like random food combinations. Commonly women crave sweets like chocolate, fruit and ice cream which may be OK to give in to from time to time. But remember that eating a healthy diet is important for you and your baby during pregnancy.
On the other hand, you may be turned off by certain foods or drinks, smells or tastes. Even things you usually like can trigger a bout of nausea or make you lose your appetite.
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