There are a number of signs and symptoms that easily tell that you are pregnant. Though some women may experience different types of symptoms, most of them are common and easy to identify.
With varying opinions and experiences related to the early signs of pregnancy, it is important for women to understand each possible sign of early pregnancy. These symptoms mostly begin after conception.
Common signs of early pregnancy
- One of the most common signs of pregnancy is missed menstrual periods. If your period does not appear about fifteen days after ovulation or about twenty nine days after the first day of your monthly cycle, then the probability of being pregnant is high.
- Morning sickness is another common sign that begins two to four weeks after conception. This is mostly characterized by vomiting and the feeling of nausea mostly in the morning but also occurs throughout the day. This is mostly apparent during the first trimester but subsides during the second or third trimester.
- Another sign of early pregnancy is frequent urination. This is mainly caused by the increasing pressure on the urinary bladder.
- Vaginal spotting or bleeding is also a common sign of the early stages of pregnancy. Once the fertilized egg reaches the uterus and attaches itself on the inner walls of your uterus, some slight bleeding may be experienced. Unlike menstruation bleeding which is usually dark or bright red, this implantation bleeding is most likely to be light and is usually normal and harmless. However, if you experience heavy bleeding, this may be a sign of early pregnancy complications and you are best advised to consult a medical professional immediately.
- Fatigue is also experienced during the early stages of pregnancy. Increased levels of exhaustion in the first few weeks of pregnancy are very common. This is mainly because of the drastic hormonal changes taking place in your body to support the developing fetus.
- Breast changes are also a common sign of pregnancy in the early stages. This mostly occurs three to four weeks after conception and is characterized by an increased degree in breast tenderness. A slight tingling sensation may also be felt. The appearance of the breast often changes becoming bigger and the tips of the nipples becoming darker.
- Mood swings, general discomfort and depression may occur during early pregnancy. The increase of estrogen and other hormones in the body are the main cause of this though the body adjusts with time as the pregnancy progresses.
What is the next step after signs of pregnancy?
Many women still have doubts about being pregnant even after experiencing any of the above signs of early pregnancy. The most convenient step to take after experiencing signs and symptoms is to take a home pregnancy test. This test helps measure the levels of the pregnancy hormone hCG in your urine. The most sensitive tests will show a positive result once the levels of the hormone reach 20.
This can be done as early as our days before your next menstrual period or approximately ten days after ovulation. Most of these home pregnancy kits are easily available and very easy to use.