Pregnancy Signs and Symptoms

The Early Signs and Symptoms of Pregnancy

This article has been created in cooperation with Dr. Brad Imler of the American Pregnancy Association, a national health organization committed to promoting reproductive and pregnancy wellness through education, research, advocacy, and community awareness. For more information on the early signs of pregnancy be sure to visit this informative site.

Pregnancy signs and symptoms differ between women and pregnancies. The most significant pregnancy sign is delayed menstruation. Some will experience pregnancy signs within a week of conception. For others, signs or symptoms will not develop over a few weeks or may not be present at all.

Understanding pregnancy signs and symptoms is important for women who have had a tubal reversal. Dr. Berger recommends monitoring your early pregnancy with quantitative serum HCG assays and scheduling a vaginal ultrasound exam when your HCG level reaches 1500. HCG is the pregnancy hormone. Dr. Berger wants to be kept informed about your pregnancy and is available if you have questions or concerns.

Here is a list of common pregnancy signs and symptoms

Implantation Bleeding:

Implantation bleeding is the earliest pregnancy sign. About eight days after conception the embryo implants itself into the uterine wall. Some women will experience spotting as well as some cramping.

Delay/Difference in Menstruation:

A delayed or missed menstruation is the most common pregnancy sign leading a woman to test for pregnancy. When you become pregnant, your next period should be missed. Many women do bleed while they are pregnant, but typically the bleeding will be shorter or lighter than a normal period.

Swollen/Tender Breasts:

Swollen or tender breasts is a pregnancy sign that may begin as early as 1-2 weeks after conception. Women may notice changes in their breasts such as tender to the touch, sore, or swollen.

Fatigue/Tiredness:

Feeling fatigued or more tired is a pregnancy symptom that can also start as early as the first week after conception.

Nausea/Morning Sickness:

This well-known pregnancy symptom will often show up between 2-8 weeks after conception. Some women are fortunate to not deal with morning sickness at all while others will feel nauseous through most of their pregnancy.

Backaches:

Lower backaches may be a symptom that occurs early in pregnancy; however it is common to experience a dull backache throughout an entire pregnancy.

Headaches:

The sudden rise of hormones in your body can cause you to have headaches early in pregnancy.

Frequent Urination:

Around 6-8 weeks after conception, you may find yourself making a few extra trips to the bathroom.

Darkening of Areolas:

If you are pregnant, the skin around your nipples may get darker.

Food Cravings:

While you may not have a strong desire to eat pickles and ice cream, many women will feel cravings for certain foods when they are pregnant. This can last throughout your entire pregnancy.