Pregnancy is a beautiful thing, but early pregnancy can be a very trying time. It’s hard to know what early signs of pregnancy are symptoms of pregnancy and which ones could be early signs of something else.
The early signs of pregnancy vary from woman to woman. While some women experience fatigue, morning sickness, and changes in their breasts, other women may not experience any symptoms at all.
If you think you may be pregnant, the best way to determine whether or not you are is to take a home pregnancy test. Home pregnancy tests are accurate and can tell you whether or not you’re pregnant as early as the first day of your missed period.
This article will talk about some early pregnancy symptoms you may be experiencing.
Your period is late
The most common early sign of pregnancy is a missed period. A missed period in conjunction with other symptoms are rather clear indicators of pregnancy. If you’re used to getting your period every month and it is now 2-3 weeks late, then this could indicate early pregnancy. Some women experience early miscarriage in the first weeks of the first trimester, so it’s important to be as vigilant as possible if you think your missed period may be early signs of pregnancy.
It is best to wait until you haven’t had a period for one week longer than your usual before taking a home pregnancy test. If you do not want to become pregnant, the best thing to do if you think you may be experiencing early signs of pregnancy and possibly already pregnant is to speak with your doctor or gynecologist.
You may experience cramping and spotting
Cramping and spotting are also early signs of pregnancy. Spotting is light bleeding, and it can be caused by implantation; the process by which the embryo attaches to the uterine wall. Cramping can be caused by implantation as well, as well as the expansion of the uterus.
If you experience cramping and spotting as well as a late period, contact your doctor to schedule an early pregnancy scan. An early pregnancy scan can determine how your pregnancy is progressing as well as checking the health of the baby.
Feeling nauseous in the morning
The early signs of pregnancy can also include nausea. If you are feeling nauseous in the morning, early signs of pregnancy may be to blame. This is usually caused by early changes in hormone levels.
Some women find that early signs of pregnancy such as nausea and vomiting early in their pregnancy can be managed by taking vitamin B6 supplements. Other early signs of pregnancy such as nausea can be managed by eating small, frequent meals and drinking plenty of water throughout the day.
You may find that certain smells or foods make you feel nauseous and/or vomiting. This could be because your body isn’t used to the changes occurring inside it.
Having tender or swollen breasts
This early sign of pregnancy is caused by the increase in hormones that occur early on in a woman’s pregnancy. The best way to deal with tender or swollen breasts is to wear a comfortable bra. You may also find that cold compresses can help to soothe the area. If your breasts are extremely tender and swollen, it’s important to speak with your doctor to make sure there isn’t an underlying cause.
Making bathroom trips more often
You may also be needing to use the bathroom more often, especially in the early morning or evening. This can be caused by increased production of urine and blood flow to the bladder. Typically they can be managed by drinking more fluids and not holding them for too long.
Getting short of breath
Shortness of breath is another early sign of pregnancy that many women experience early on in their pregnancy. This early symptom can be caused by hormonal changes early on in a woman’s pregnancy. If your early signs of pregnancy include panting and gasping for air, there are also natural ways to deal with it: breathing exercises and relaxation techniques.
Increase in appetite or cravings
Another early sign of pregnancy is an increase in appetite or cravings. This early sign of pregnancy is caused by the increase in hormones and the need for more nutrients. You may find that you are suddenly craving certain foods, or that you are eating more than usual.
Constipation early in pregnancy
If you are feeling constipated early on in your early signs of pregnancy, this can be caused by increased progesterone levels. Progesterone causes the muscles of the intestines to slow down to prepare for absorption.
You may find that increasing your fiber intake and drinking plenty of water throughout the day will help prevent early signs of pregnancy such as constipation. If your early signs of pregnancy are particularly uncomfortable, you may want to speak with your doctor about taking a stool softener or a mild laxative until you give birth.
Last word
Early pregnancy signs are different for each pregnant woman. It’s important to know early signs of pregnancy that may be specific to you, as well as early signs general across all women.
If you are trying to become pregnant, early signs of pregnancy can be a good indication that things are going well. By knowing the early signs of pregnancy, you can begin taking care of yourself and start preparing for the arrival of your new baby.
