If you've been trying to get pregnant, wondering whether you're going to have a baby this time can be a stressful time. If you're a time in your life where a baby would be bad news, it's worrying for other reasons. However, in most women, the signs of pregnancy are similar. If you know what to look for, it's easy to know if it's time to celebrate or worry. Remember that all women are different – that means you can be pregnant without having all the symptoms, and that many symptoms can be caused by other things. See a doctor or take a pregnancy test to be sure.
Bleeding or Spotting: One of the earliest signs of pregnancy occurs between one and two weeks after conception. This is when the embryo implants into the uterus wall. Cramping and spotting occur in some women. This isn't the only reason for bleeding, however. You could be starting your period unexpectedly, have abrasions from rough sex, or be feeling the effects of hormonal changes from starting a new method of birth control.
Delayed Menstruation or Different Menstruation: It's still possible to bleed while pregnant, but this bleeding is usually different than usual. It can be lighter or shorter, signaling that something is strange. However, it's also common to miss your period after you become pregnant. If you lose or gain a lot of weight, change hormonal birth control methods, are breast feeding or are stressed, you can also have unusual or missed periods.
Tender or Swollen Breasts: As early as a week after conception, your breasts could feel tender, sore, or appear to be larger. Hormonal changes and PMS can also cause this to occur.
Feeling Tired or Fatigued: Many women feel tired as early as a week after conception. This is because of the new demands placed on their bodies. Remember that stress, depression and illness can also cause you to feel this way. When you're trying to decide if you're pregnant, examine all factors closely.
Nausea and Morning Sickness: If you're feeling ill in the morning, you could be suffering from morning sickness. This can happen between two and eight weeks after you conceive. However, some women never get sick, while other feel ill throughout their pregnancies. Other causes of illness include viruses and bacterial infections, food poisoning and stress. Look for nausea over a prolonged period to decide if you have morning sickness.
Headache: Many women suffer from headaches in the early part of pregnancy. This is because hormonal changes can cause muscle tension and blood pressure changes. Remember that stress, caffeine withdrawal, injuries, and strain can make your head hurt, too.
Lower Back Pain: Common throughout pregnancy, a dull backache is a standard sign. You can also feel this way because of injury, poor posture, and tiredness.
Frequent Urination: An expanding uterus puts pressure on your bladder, starting about six weeks after conception. If you're going to the bathroom a lot, think about the possibility of pregnancy. Other reasons this might happen include diabetes, a UTI, or just drinking more water.
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