What Are The Early Signs & Symptoms of Pregnancy?

If you are on the journey of trying to conceive (or avoiding it!), it is extremely valuable to be aware of your body’s workings. Paying close attention to your body not only benefits you from understanding what is normal for you, but also helps you to notice the subtle changes and symptoms of an early pregnancy.

Are the symptoms that obvious?

Well, the truth is, every body has their own particular patterns, and they differ from woman to woman, but there are a few common symptoms you can look for. However, in the same way that one woman might have killer cramps during PMS, and another woman might not have any cramps at all, the indications - or lack of - of early pregnancy will vary as well. Just because your friend or maybe even a close relative went through certain symptoms does not necessarily mean that you will too.

How soon do the symptoms start?

Some pregnancy symptoms appear quite early in the pregnancy but usually not immediately. 60% of women may experience symptoms as early as five to six weeks after their last period. This is usually two weeks from when you missed your last period or when you were expecting your last period.

Alternatively, some women, experience symptoms within the first week of their pregnancy - which we call the first trimester. Others may experience symptoms late in their pregnancy. This usually because pregnancy symptoms tend to mimic the symptoms one has before the onset of their period - which explains well why some women discover their pregnancy later.

Some symptoms and signs:

Of course, the most common symptom is missing your period, but except for absent period bleedings, look out for:

• Tender breasts

• Tiredness

• Nausea

• Abdominal pain

And most commonly, morning sickness. But remember that not all pregnant women necessarily will experience it!

It is also important to note that your first pregnancy symptoms could vary from your second pregnancy symptoms.

Trying to figure out if you’re pregnant?

Here’s what you should do:

1. Remain calm

It is important to remain calm and realize that there are many other factors that could cause a late period and even other symptoms like nausea, tiredness, and tender breasts. In fact, they are very similar to PMS symptoms. So whether you're expecting to conceive or avoiding it, try not to jump into conclusions too early.

2. Get a pregnancy test.

This is the surest way to get all your answers and put all your doubts to rest. Remember to wait until you’ve missed your period to get accurate results from the urine test.

You can buy a pregnancy test from your nearest health department, doctor, or a home testing pregnancy kit. A pregnancy testing kit can be acquired from your local pharmacy store.

In summary, whether you’re trying to conceive or avoid pregnancy, keep in mind that being in tune with your body and aware of your patterns is the lifetime most important piece of advice you can get. Women will have different experiences throughout all phases of pregnancy, and if you compare yourself to anyone else but you, it might cause some anxiety and doubts if what you’re experiencing is normal. If you’re suspicious that you might be pregnant, get a pregnancy test to confirm/dispute the symptoms you are experiencing, and if you don’t feel prepared for a pregnancy, please contact Marie Stopes.

Stay informed, stay in control.