Early Pregnancy Signs

2007-11-16T17:01:00.000-08:00

All women are different of course, and so are all pregnancies. My first child was a complete surprise, totally unexpected and unplanned, my second was planned right down to her due date. Both were girls and yet my pregnancies were quite different from each other.

What was not different were those very first signs of early pregnancy. For me it was like having the most severe month of PMS x's 100! My boobs were so sore and full I could hardly put my arms down to my sides, I was so bloated I couldn't zip up my pants and of course I was waiting for my period to start so this terrible PMS would subside, but of course that didn't happen because I was pregnant!

If you are pregnant and this is your first you are in for a wonderful journey! You will more than likely end up on a steep learning curve wanting to know everything from buying beautiful gifts for baby, to car seat safety, baby car seat mirrors and so, so much more!

Here is a list of the Top 10 Early Signs of Pregnancy.
If you have any of these early pregnancy symptoms you may have a legit reason to take a pregnancy test!
If you're planning your pregnancy, it's best to start your prenatal vitamins and folic acid as early as possible, even before conception.
Keep in mind signs of pregnancy differ from woman to woman. While some have few, others have more.

Missed Menstrual Period
A missed cycle can be an early sign of pregnancy. It is usually the first indicator, although some women claim to know they are pregnant before they miss a period.

Tender Breasts
Tender swollen breasts are another early sign of pregnancy. While tender breasts are a symptom of an impending cycle, enlarged breasts are not. Sore and swollen breasts with a tingling sensation can be an early sign of pregnancy.

Nausea and Morning Sickness
Morning sickness and nausea can be an early sign that a woman is pregnant. Many women say that they've had nausea up to two weeks before an expected monthly cycle and before any other symptom. Eating crackers before getting out of the bed in the morning can help and eating several smaller meals instead of larger ones can help with nausea.

Spotting
Spotting is a common symptom in early pregnancy. Some women report what seems to be a short light period before the onset of other symptoms. This may be implantation bleeding and not a monthly period at all (when the egg implants itself into the lining of the uterus). If you are pregnant and you experience spotting check in with your doctor as spotting is also an indicator of miscarriage in early pregnancy.

Fatigue
Extreme fatigue can be another indicator of pregnancy, especially if other symptoms are present. A nap a day can help a pregnant woman maintain normal daily activities.

Frequent Urination
An increased urge to urinate can be an indicator and usually occurs between 6 to 8 weeks after conception.

Headaches
Headaches in early pregnancy are a common symptom and begin at about the 6th week. A quick nap can help prevent headaches while pregnant.
(Preeclampsia or toxemia can begin with headache and can be dangerous to a pregnant woman. If you are pregnant and have this symptom, be sure to call your health care provider immediately.)

Light Headedness
Some pregnant women experience actual fainting and light headedness.

Heartburn
Heartburn can be symptom of pregnancy in months 1-9. In months 1-4, heartburn is caused by hormonal changes. In months 5-9, the baby can cause pressure on a pregnant woman's organs. Eating frequent smaller meals and remaining in an upright position at least an hour after eating can help.

Constipation
Hormonal changes can affect the digestive system and cause constipation. Drinking plenty of water and exercising can help. A pregnant woman should ask her doctor for recommended exercises while pregnant.

If you have these early pregnancy signs and take a pregnancy test and it’s positive CONGRATULATIONS! I hope you have a great pregnancy!