What Are the Early Pregnancy Symptoms?

September 12, 2024

Pregnancy symptoms can vary widely from one woman to another. While some may experience a range of early signs, others might not notice any symptoms at all. 

It’s essential to remember that the presence or absence of these symptoms does not definitively indicate pregnancy—only a positive pregnancy test can do that.

Early Pregnancy Symptoms

Here are some of the most common signs of pregnancy, as noted by the Mayo Clinic. 

Missed Period

One of the earliest and most common symptoms of pregnancy is a missed period. However, this can be misleading if your menstrual cycle is irregular. 

Tender, Swollen Breasts

Other early signs include tender, swollen breasts, which may begin as early as one to two weeks after conception. Hormonal changes can make your breasts feel fuller or heavier, and the area around your nipples, known as the areola, might darken.

Fatigue

Fatigue is another common early symptom, often starting as soon as one week after conception. The surge in progesterone levels during early pregnancy can make you feel unusually tired. 

Nausea, With or Without Vomiting

You might also experience nausea, often referred to as morning sickness, although it can occur at any time of the day. This typically begins a month after conception but can start earlier.

Frequent Urination

Have you been going to the bathroom more than usual? This can be a sign of pregnancy. The amount of blood in your body increases during pregnancy, causing your kidneys to process extra fluid in your bladder.

Light Spotting

Light spotting is another one of the first signs of pregnancy. It is known as implantation bleeding, which happens when the fertilized egg attaches to the lining of the uterus. Implantation bleeding occurs around the time you would expect to have a menstrual period, which can make it tricky to identify. However, not all women have it.

Other Symptoms

Other potential symptoms include food aversions, mood swings, and bloating. It’s important to understand that these symptoms can also be related to other factors and not necessarily pregnancy.

Since pregnancy symptoms can differ so much from one woman to another, and because some women might not experience any symptoms at all, the most reliable way to confirm a pregnancy is through testing.

Get Free Testing

If you suspect you might be pregnant, Nova Women’s Health offers free medical-grade pregnancy testing. Early confirmation allows you to explore your options and access the care you need. 

Our caring medical staff is here to answer your questions in a safe and nonjudgmental space. 

Schedule your free appointment today to get the support you deserve.