There are times when you may wonder if you are pregnant. It can be difficult to tell, especially if you have never been pregnant before. However, there are certain signs and symptoms that are common to all pregnant women. These signs have been proven to be reliable indicators of pregnancy.
If you’re experiencing any of the following symptoms, you may be pregnant. However, it’s important to remember that these symptoms could also be indicative of other illnesses. To be sure, it’s always best to consult with a physician or take a pregnancy test.
It can be tough to tell if you’re about to become a mom, but there are some surefire signs. Feeling exhausted, having tender breasts, or feeling nauseous could be early signs of pregnancy. Of course, the only way to know for sure is to take a pregnancy test.
1. If you notice that you’ve missed a menstrual cycle, it’s important to take extra care. This may be a sign that you are pregnant, as missing a period is often the first symptom of pregnancy. However, some women report experiencing pregnancy symptoms even before they miss their period.
2. Your breasts may feel tender and swollen during pregnancy, and you may also notice that your nipples are more sensitive than usual. These changes are caused by hormonal fluctuations, and are perfectly normal. However, if you experience any sharp pain or unusual discharge from your breasts, be sure to contact your doctor.
Pregnancy can cause breasts to feel heavier and look slightly larger. This is due to the increased levels of progesterone and estrogen hormones, which prepare the breasts for milk production. This may be one of the first symptoms of pregnancy, and can occur as early as two weeks after conception.
3. Pregnancy can be tough on a woman’s body. Fatigue is one major symptom experienced during pregnancy, especially during the early stages. During pregnancy, a woman’s body works harder to produce additional hormones, fluids, and blood to nourish the fetus. The increase in progesterone level, which is a natural depressant, also explains why pregnant women experience sleepiness all the time. So, if you’re pregnant and feeling exhausted, you’re not alone!
4. Pregnant women often experience nausea and vomiting, especially during the first 56 days of pregnancy. This symptom, called morning sickness, is caused by the increased hormone levels in the first weeks after conception.
Although morning sickness is the name given to this symptom, it can be experienced at any time of the day. The increased level of estrogen produced in the placenta causes the stomach to digest slowly and emptying it may take a longer time. This then results in an upset stomach, which is why pregnant women vomit.
5. When you spot it means that you may be pregnant. In early pregnancy, you may have slight bleeding and cramps in your abdomen. You may see small spots of blood on your underwear or when you go to the bathroom.
This can happen around 11 to 14 days after the egg cell has been fertilized. This is because the fertilized egg begins to stick to the lining of your uterus. The spots of blood are a lighter red color compared to the usual color of blood you see during menstruation. The cramps, on the other hand, are due to the enlargement of the uterus in preparation for the growing fetus. The cramps are similar to the cramping experienced during menstrual periods, but can be more intense.
Pregnancy can be a daunting experience, filled with new challenges and changes to your body. Keep a journal, talk to your doctor or midwife, and seek support. Doing these things will help you get through pregnancy and become a stronger and more prepared mother.
