There are several early symptoms or signs of pregnancy including fatigue, cramping and nausea and symptoms will vary from woman to woman. In some cases women may experience multiple signs or symptoms and other women may not show any signs or symptoms.
One of the most common very early signs of pregnancy is breast swelling When a woman is pregnant one of the first signs is changes in the breasts. Some women notice that their breasts have become tender and swollen, and they may notice that their breasts hurt, throb or tingle. The nipples and the area around the nipples called the areola may become very sensitive and may become darker in color. Also their breasts may feel heavier because milk glands are developing. Changes in the breasts can occur as early as two weeks after conception. These changes develop because hormones are preparing the body for breastfeeding.
The second most common early sign of pregnancy is a missed menstrual period. It is also one of most obvious signs that a woman is pregnant. If a woman’s cycle is regular and all of sudden it is missed a common and early sign of pregnancy. This usually triggers women to look for other signs to confirm that they are pregnant. Besides being missed a woman’s period could also be lighter than usual.
Another early common sign of pregnancy is slight bleeding or spotting which can occur eight to fourteen days after conception. In some woman it can be the first sign of pregnancy. This bleeding occurs earlier than the normal period and is pink or brownish in color. Also it does not last as long as a regular cycle. Many women make the mistake of thinking this is their normal menstrual period, when in actually they are pregnant.
Nausea is another very common early sign of pregnancy. It is often called “morning sickness,” but it can occur anytime of the day or night. For most women it is most common in the fourth to eighth week of pregnancy but many women experience nausea as early as one week after conception.
Women are different and will experience varying degrees of early signs of pregnancy. If a woman suspects she has any early signs of pregnant it is important for her to visit with her doctor.
