Whether you are pregnant or not is something that can be said for sure only once a pregnancy test is done. However, by looking for some early pregnancy signs you can certainly take the decision if there is a need for doing a pregnancy test.
Early Pregnancy Signs
Given the difference in body structure and hormonal balance, no pregnancy will be same and nor are the early signs and symptoms of pregnancy. As a matter of fact, there are chances that some women might not even experience any of these signs. But in general, an early pregnancy can be detected by looking for the following signs:
Changes in Breast: This is among the earliest signs of pregnancy. You will notice some minor changes in your breasts. As your hormone levels change rapidly post conception, the breasts might become swollen, tingly or sore' a week or two later. They might even feel heavier, fuller or tender to the touch. You can even notice darkening of skin around the nipples.
Fatigue (Tiredness): You will tend to feel extremely tired during the early stages of pregnancy. This is because of the high level of progesterone, which happens during pregnancy. However, at times fatigue can even be a result of low blood pressure and sugar levels.
Spotting and Cramping: Some days post conception, the fertilized egg will attach itself to the uterus wall. This can result into slight spotting along with cramping. This is known as implantation bleeding and it generally occurs between six to 12 days after the egg gets fertilized. The cramps and spotting are often mistaken as coming of periods. But this one will be very slight.
Nausea (Morning Sickness): It's one of the most popular of pregnancy symptoms. Pregnancy hormones trigger morning sickness and it mostly happens early morning when you wake up.
Missed Period: This is certainly the most obvious pregnancy symptom to look for. And is probably the one that prompts a woman to undergo a pregnancy test for confirmation. It's also to be noted that sometimes a missed period can even be indicative of a delayed period, so testing is the only way to confirm your doubts.
Other Early Pregnancy Signs to Look for
Shortness of Breath: You might feel short of breath while climbing up stairs. This is because the growing fetus would use all of your body's oxygen leaving you short of breath.
Frequent Urination: If you have started visiting the loo more often than usual, it can be indicative of pregnancy.
Headaches: The changes in hormones during pregnancy can bring along some nasty headaches too. If they are too extreme, get in touch with your medical aid.
Back aches: This will not just be an early sign but will be with you throughout pregnancy. If you feel your lower back is sore, it's time you might get to share the good news soon.
Cravings or Food Aversions: If you are pregnant, there are chances for you to develop a sudden dislike or fondness for certain food types, which you might have not experienced before.
Constipation and Bloating: The extra progesterone during pregnancy slows down the digestive system which can make you feel bloated or constipated.
Mood Swings: Pregnancy can even bring about some frequent changes in your mood. You might feel happy or sad within fraction of seconds without any justified reason.
High Basal Body Temperature: If you basal body temperature stays elevated for more than a period of two weeks, it might be a sign of pregnancy.
Super Smell: This is another of the early pregnancy signs. If you get repulsed by certain smells, or feel to have acquired an increased sensitivity to smell, it might be indicative of pregnancy.
Dizziness or Fainting: The hormonal changes in the body during pregnancy can make you feel dizzy at several occasions.
You can certainly count on these pregnancy signs. As said earlier as well, some women might experience a few of them while for some none will make a presence. Do a pregnancy test if you experience any of these symptoms to be sure if you are pregnant!