Every pregnancy is different, and every woman is different. As such, each woman will experience varying degrees of pregnancy symptoms. However, there are certain pregnancy symptoms that are quite common and are experienced by the majority of pregnant women. Identifying and understanding the early signs of pregnancy is important in order to determine whether or not a pregnancy test is in order.
Some women may experience symptoms within a week of getting pregnant, while others will not feel anything until they are well into their first trimester. However, one of the most significant pregnancy symptoms that will be experienced by most pregnant women is a missed menstrual cycle.
The following are the most common pregnancy symptoms that start very early in pregnancy:
Missed Period
A missed period is the most common sign of pregnancy, and is one that must be experienced. It is impossible to be pregnant and continue to have a menstrual cycle. Any vaginal bleeding experienced during pregnancy is unrelated to menstruation.
Implantation Bleeding
Implantation bleeding is one of the earliest pregnancy symptoms. Implantation bleeding occurs when the fertilized egg implants itself in the wall of the uterus. When this happens, a little bit of bleeding can occur, which is usually light and short in duration. This usually happens about six to 12 days after the egg has been fertilized. Some women may mistake this for their menstrual period since it will most likely occur some time around when their period is due.
Swollen, Tender Breasts and Darkened Areolas
Sore breasts are common in early pregnancy. The breasts will be very tender to the touch, and even during light motion. They may increase in size. The areolas tend to darken and enlarge. There are pregnancy bras on the market that are more supportive and can reduce the breast discomfort associated with being pregnant.
Fatigue
Exhaustion is another very early pregnancy symptom. The onset of this fatigue can happen as early as one week after conception. Pregnant women who experience this symptom will feel incredibly lethargic and unable to stay up as late as they used to prior to getting pregnant.
Nausea
Morning sickness is one of the most uncomfortable and unpleasant of all the pregnancy symptoms. The term "morning sickness" can be misleading as the nausea can strike at any time of the day, and in some situations, last all day. Some unfortunate women experience nausea throughout their entire pregnancy, while some lucky ladies may not experience this symptom at all.
Frequent Urination
As the uterus presses on the bladder, a feeling of needing to urinate will be felt. This will lead to more frequent trips to the bathroom. Although this is an early pregnancy sign, this symptom will become more prominent in the late stages of pregnancy as the baby grows and adds more pressure on the bladder.
Sensitivity to Smell and Unusual Cravings
Many pregnant women have a heightened sense of smell, and may be turned off by certain scents that normally wouldn't have bothered them. In addition, pregnant women may find themselves craving food they normally wouldn't enjoy. These are early symptoms that may carry well into the pregnancy.
For more pregnancy-related information, please visit: www.complete-pregnancy-guide.com
References:
1. American Pregnancy Association
2. Eisenberg et al, What to Expect When You're Expecting, 1991
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