Did you know that when it comes to pregnancy many signs and symptoms can act as an early indicator? Whether it’s just one or a couple of them, these early signs of pregnancy are often enough to prompt a person to take a home pregnancy test or at least question if that could be a possibility.
If you’re currently trying to get pregnant, or you’re just curious as to whether symptoms you may currently be feeling could point to pregnancy, then you’ll want to read on. Here we’ll take a look at 10 early signs of pregnancy.
Missed Period
This one is the most obvious sign of all for women in childbearing years, and it is usually a very accurate way of determining if you are pregnant. If it has been a week or more since your period should have started, then it's probably worth taking a home pregnancy test. Where things can get tricky is if you have an irregular menstrual cycle, as it can be difficult to know when to expect your period.
Feeling More Tired Than Usual
While this symptom alone isn't enough to assume pregnancy, it does tend to happen in the early stages. If you're feeling more tired than usual, and have other symptoms on the list, then a stronger case is made for pregnancy.
Nausea With or Without Vomiting
Morning sickness is a very talked-about symptom of pregnancy, especially in the first trimester. What’s misleading about the term “morning sickness” is that it implies it only happens in the morning. In reality, women can experience nausea with or without vomiting at any time of the day or night. It may be fleeting and only happen occasionally, or it can be a constant state of nausea. This symptom is usually most prevalent during the first trimester.
Breasts Become Swollen and Tender
It's also common for breasts to become swollen and appear larger. They can also be very tender and sensitive to touch. This is part of the hormonal changes during pregnancy. This symptom tends to only last a few weeks, but for some, it continues the entire pregnancy.
Frequent Need to Urinate
This is another symptom that you can’t read too much into if it’s the only one you have. Frequent urination can point to a bladder infection, or some other issue. If however, you have some of the other early symptoms and you find yourself needing to urinate more often, then it’s more likely that it could be pregnancy-related. This symptom often develops in the first trimester and lasts the duration of the pregnancy.
Strong Reaction to Certain Foods
A strong reaction to certain foods can mean you crave some items, and others create a negative response. Foods you have always loved may suddenly make you feel sick, and then you may crave a specific item that you’ve never paid much attention to in the past. You may also feel a constant hunger, and feel like you can never quite eat enough.
Sudden Moodiness
This particular sign can often be confused with PMS, but sudden moodiness can also be an early sign of pregnancy. Again, it has to do with the hormonal changes your body is currently going through. You may find that you get moody for no particular reason, are quick to lose your temper, cry more easily, and so forth.
Mild Cramping
While not as common as some of the other early signs of pregnancy, mild cramping can occur. It is often described as the same type of cramps you feel during a period. These tend to only happen on one side of your body and can come and go. Should the cramps become severe, it's best to see your healthcare provider immediately to ensure it's not an ectopic pregnancy or another health concern.
Bloating
Bloating is described as a sense of fullness in your mid-section and belly. It can feel like you’re full of gas or air and can be quite painful. Your pants may suddenly feel tight, you may feel uncomfortable when sitting down, and as though you need to relieve some of that pressure.
Dizziness and Headaches
Dizziness and/or headaches are other early signs that women often experience. For those who don’t usually suffer from headaches, this can be an especially frustrating sign to contend with. When pregnant, your blood volume increases and of course, your hormone levels are changing. Both of these factors can spark lightheadedness and headaches.
When In Doubt – Take a Test and Visit Your Doctor
Of course with or without these signs, when in doubt the best piece of advice is to take a home pregnancy test and visit your doctor. This will ensure that you get an answer promptly.