While only ultrasound and pregnancy tests can confirm pregnancy, several early signs and symptoms can help women suspect they might be pregnant. The first week of pregnancy is calculated from the first day of a woman’s last menstrual period, marking the beginning of her pregnancy journey. Below are some common signs and symptoms that may indicate pregnancy:
1. Missed Period
- A missed period is one of the most common early signs of pregnancy.
- If you haven’t had your period for 4 weeks after conception, it could indicate pregnancy.
- After implantation, the body produces human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG), which maintains the pregnancy and stops the ovaries from releasing eggs.
- Home Test: A urine pregnancy test (UPT) can detect hCG as early as 7 days after conception.
- Note: Women with irregular periods should confirm with a pregnancy test.
2. Lower Abdominal Pain and Spotting
Implantation Bleeding: Light spotting or bleeding may occur when the fertilized egg attaches to the uterine lining.
Symptoms:
- Colour: Pink, red, or brown.
- Bleeding: Light and intermittent.
- Pain: Mild cramping, lighter than menstrual cramps.
- Timing: Occurs once a day or over a week.
- Note: Not all women experience implantation bleeding.
3. Morning Sickness
- Nausea and vomiting, often called morning sickness, are common during the first trimester.
- Symptoms may worsen toward the end of the first trimester but typically improve in the second trimester.
4. Increased Body Temperature
- A higher basal body temperature due to hormonal changes can be an early sign of pregnancy.
5. Smell Sensitivity and Food Aversions
- Increased sensitivity to smells is a common early pregnancy symptom.
- This can trigger nausea and vomiting.
- Cause: Hormonal changes, particularly increased estrogen levels.
6. Fatigue
- Fatigue is common in early pregnancy due to rising progesterone levels.
- It can occur in any trimester but is most pronounced in the first trimester.
7. Increased Heart Rate
- Blood volume increases during pregnancy, causing the heart to work harder.
- This can lead to palpitations or a faster heartbeat.
8. Breast Changes
Early Changes (4-6 weeks):
- Tender, swollen breasts due to hormonal changes.
- These symptoms often subside as the body adjusts to hormonal shifts.
- Later Changes:
- Nipples and areolas may darken and enlarge.
- Breasts continue to grow throughout pregnancy.
9. Mood Swings
- Hormonal changes, particularly in estrogen and progesterone, can cause mood swings.
- Common emotions include:
- Euphoria
- Anxiety
- Irritability
- Depression
10. UTI-Like Symptoms
- Increased blood volume and hormonal effects can lead to:
- Frequent urination
- Urgent urination
- Urinary incontinence
11. Bloating and Constipation
- Hormonal changes slow down the digestive system, leading to:
- Bloating
- Constipation
12. Heartburn
- Hormonal effects relax the sphincter between the stomach and esophagus, allowing stomach acid to escape and causing heartburn.
13. Pregnancy Glow
- Increased blood volume and hormonal changes can give the skin a radiant, glowing appearance.
- The skin may appear shiny due to increased oil gland activity.
How to Confirm Pregnancy at Home
- Urine Pregnancy Test:
- Detects the presence of hCG in urine.
- Accuracy: Highly accurate, but false negatives can occur if the test is taken too early.
- Timing: Test in the morning when hCG levels are highest.
- Confirmation: A positive test should be followed by a doctor’s visit for an ultrasound to confirm intrauterine pregnancy.
When to See a doctor
- If you experience any of the above symptoms and suspect pregnancy, take a home pregnancy test.
- Schedule a doctor’s appointment to confirm the pregnancy and begin prenatal care.
By recognizing these early signs and symptoms, women can take the necessary steps to confirm pregnancy and seek appropriate medical care. Always consult a healthcare professional for accurate diagnosis and guidance.