First Signs and Symptoms of Pregnancy

 
While it is somewhat difficult to determine if you are pregnant within the first week of conceiving, after that time there are numerous signs that you can look out for. Below we outline the ten most common early pregnancy signs, explain how to look for them and other things that could be causing some of these signs to appear. If you are trying to determine if you are pregnant, this article is guaranteed to help.

Missed Menstrual Period*

A missed menstrual period is usually the first indicator that a woman is pregnant, although some women claim to know they are pregnant before they miss a period.

Tender Breasts*

Tender swollen breasts are another early symptom. While tender breasts are a symptom of an impending menstrual period, enlarged breasts are not. Sore and swollen breasts with a tingling sensation can be an early indicator that a woman is pregnant.

Nausea and Morning Sickness*

Nausea associated with morning sickness can be a tell-tale sign that a woman is pregnant. Many women suggest that they've had nausea up to two weeks before an expected menstrual period and before any other symptom. Eating crackers before getting out of the bed in the morning can help with morning sickness and eating several smaller meals instead of larger meals can help with nausea related to morning sickness.

Fatigue*

Extreme fatigue can be another indicator of pregnancy, especially if other symptoms are present. One or two naps per day can help a pregnant woman maintain normal daily activities.

Frequent Urination*

Frequent urination in pregnancy usually occurs between 6 to 8 weeks after conception.

Headaches

Headaches while pregnant are common and begin at about the 6th week. A quick nap can help prevent headaches while pregnant. Preeclampsia or toxemia can begin with headache and can be dangerous to a pregnant woman. If you are pregnant and get headaches check in with your doctor.

Spotting

Spotting is common while pregnant. Some women report what seems to be a short light period before the onset of other symptoms. This may be implantation bleeding and not a menstrual period at all (when the egg implants itself into the lining of the uterus). If you are pregnant and you experience spotting check in with your doctor as spotting is also an indicator of miscarriage.

Light Headedness

Some pregnant women experience actual fainting and light headedness during early pregnancy.

Constipation

Hormonal changes can affect the digestive system and cause constipation. Drinking plenty of water and exercising can help. A pregnant woman should ask her doctor for recommended exercises while pregnant.

Heartburn

Hearburn can be symptom in months 1-9. In months 1-4, heartburn is caused by hormonal changes. In months 5-9, the baby can cause pressure on a pregnant woman's organs. Eating frequent smaller meals and remaining in an upright position at least an hour after eating can help.

Signs of Pregnancy	Other Possible Causes of these Symptoms
Missed menstrual cycle	Change in weight, fatigue, stress, anxiety, stopping birth control
Nausea without vomiting	Stomach disorder, food poisoning, stress
Fatigue	Stress, depression, flu, anemia
Breast Changes and Tenderness	Hormonal imbalance, birth control, menstruation
Frequent Urination	Diabetes, Urinary tract infection, diuretic consumption

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