Think you might be pregnant? While taking a pregnancy test is the first step toward finding out, there are early symptoms of pregnancy you can watch to potentially confirm your suspicions.
While every woman’s experience is different, here are the top seven common symptoms of early pregnancy:
1. Missed Period
One of the most obvious signs of early pregnancy is a missed menstrual period. If your cycle is regular and you find that your period is late, it may be time to take a pregnancy test. However, some women can experience light spotting or implantation bleeding around the time of their expected period, which happens when the embryo implants into the uterine lining. This can be mistaken for a light period.
2. Morning Sickness
Nausea with/without vomiting, often referred to as morning sickness, can occur at any time of the day. It typically starts around the sixth week of pregnancy and is linked to rising hormone levels. Some women may experience mild nausea, while others might have more severe symptoms, including vomiting.
3. Breast Changes
Early pregnancy can cause noticeable changes in your breasts. You may experience tenderness, swelling, or heightened sensitivity. Your areolas (the area around your nipples) might also darken and enlarge as your body prepares for breastfeeding.
4. Fatigue
Feeling unusually tired is a common early pregnancy symptom. The rise in progesterone levels can make you feel more fatigued, even if you’re getting plenty of rest. Your body is working hard to support the growing embryo, which can drain your energy.
5. Frequent Urination
Hormonal changes and increased blood flow to your kidneys can make you need to urinate more often. This symptom usually starts in the early weeks of pregnancy and continues as your uterus expands and puts pressure on your bladder.
6. Food Aversions and Cravings
Pregnancy can change your relationship with food. You may suddenly develop strong cravings for certain foods or experience aversions to foods you once enjoyed. These shifts are often due to hormonal changes affecting your sense of taste and smell.
7. Mood Swings
Hormonal fluctuations can also affect your emotions, causing mood swings or heightened sensitivity. You may feel more emotional or irritable than usual, especially in the early stages of pregnancy. If you feel like you’re on an emotional rollercoaster, there’s a chance you might be pregnant.
Free Pregnancy Testing
If you’re experiencing any of these symptoms—especially a missed period—it’s essential to take a pregnancy test. This is the first step toward finding out if you’re pregnant.
If your test results are positive, the next step is an ultrasound. This simple scan will confirm your pregnancy and give you the important details you need to stay safe.
At Stillwater Life Services, we offer both services for free, because we believe you deserve to have the answers you need.
Contact us today to schedule your free, confidential appointment. You’re not alone in this. We’re here for you.