How do you know your pregnant? Because of the signs you body sends. Find out the very first symptoms of pregnancy that you may notice in your first trimester.
Pregnancy is different for every women. Heck, each pregnancy any one woman experiences is different from the others. But several symptoms are common early in pregnancy, some that are widely known, some you may not have known.
Morning sickness
Despite the name, the nausea or vomiting you experience may occur at any time of day.This is one of the first symptoms you might experience. It may start as early as one week after conception, however, it typically 6 to 12 weeks
Slight spotting
when the embryo attaches to the lining of the uterus, it may disturb some of the lining which is shed as light pink or light brown spotting-much lighter than a normal period. This is normal and would happen about 8 - 10 days after ovulation (actually just a bit earlier than your period is due).
Cramping
This may happen in early pregnancy as the uterus shifts to adjust as it grows. It may feel worse if you've been active. This may start 8 - 10 days after conception.
Missed period
Many times, this is the first symptom we notice. However, if you have very regular periods, you may know you're pregnant even before taking a test.
Frequent urination
Even early on in the pregnancy, your growing uterus can start putting pressure on your bladder. Don't forget, it's not just the baby that's growing but your uterus is thickening and a placenta and fluid are being created. You may feel this as soon as 2 - 3 weeks after conception.
Breasts become larger or more tender
Just as our breast may feel swollen or tender before our period, you may have the same feeling, starting 3 weeks into your pregnancy. But don't buy a maternity bra just yet. Your breast will get bigger yet throughout your pregnancy.
Areolas get darker
That dark ring around your nipple may start to get darker and wider 2 to 4 weeks after conception. It is thought that the darker color of the areola helps the newborn to find the nipple for breastfeeding.
Fatigue
Starting from 8 to 10 weeks after conception, you might start to feel tired, even exhausted. You have to give yourself a break here. Your body is going through significant metabolic changes and it needs time to adjust to the new process of growing a baby. It should go away by the end of your first trimester.
Constipation
Your bowel habits may change in early pregnancy, about 8 to 10 weeks after conception. The extra hormones produced during pregnancy cause the intestines to relax and become less efficient.
Indigestion and Heartburn
Heartburn and indigestion are extremely common sometime after the 8th week. This happens due to hormone changes, specifically progesterone making your stomach work slower
Discharge
The amount of vaginal discharge increases early in pregnancy with increased estrogen production and greater blood flow to the vaginal area. This may start about week 8 and is perfectly normal.
Of course, if you need to know if you are pregnant, there is no substitute for a pregnancy test (store bought tests are very reliable). However, if you see several signs, you know to check.