9 Early Signs of Pregnancy

If you’ve recently been wondering, “Am I pregnant?” recognizing the early signs can help you take the next steps toward confirming it. While every woman’s pregnancy experience is different, there are common early symptoms that many women encounter. Understanding these signs can prepare you for what’s ahead and ensure timely medical care. Here’s what to look for:

1. Missed period

The most noticeable and often the first sign of pregnancy is a missed period. If your menstrual cycle is regular and you find yourself a week late, it’s time to take a home pregnancy test. These tests are highly reliable at this stage. If your result is positive, schedule an appointment with your doctor to confirm your pregnancy and begin prenatal care. 

However, it’s important to note that a missed period isn’t always tied to pregnancy. Stress, illness, or fluctuations in weight can sometimes disrupt your cycle, so don’t rely solely on this sign.

What to do next:

• Use a home pregnancy test for initial confirmation.
• Contact your healthcare provider to discuss next steps.

2. Nausea and vomiting 

Known as morning sickness, nausea and vomiting can begin as early as week four or five of pregnancy and may last through the first trimester. Don’t be fooled by the name: It doesn’t happen only in the morning. Some experience mild symptoms, while others have more severe cases requiring medical attention. Hormonal changes, particularly rising levels of human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) and estrogen, are the culprits.

How to cope with morning sickness:

• Eat smaller, frequent meals to maintain blood sugar levels.
• Snack on dry crackers or toast before getting out of bed in the morning.
• Stay hydrated by sipping water, ginger tea, or electrolyte drinks.

If nausea becomes unmanageable or leads to significant weight loss, consult your doctor for solutions or possible medical treatment.

3. Fatigue and exhaustion 

Pregnancy can make you feel more tired than usual. Growing a baby demands a significant amount of energy from your body, increasing progesterone levels, lowering blood sugar, and reducing blood pressure, all of which contribute to fatigue. This exhaustion can occur at any point during the day, from mid-afternoon sluggishness to feeling completely drained by bedtime.

How do you boost your energy when pregnant? 

• Rest as much as possible, taking naps if needed.
• Eat a balanced diet with plenty of protein, healthy fats, and complex carbohydrates.
• Incorporate light exercise, like walking or yoga, into your daily routine to improve circulation and energy.

4. Breast tenderness and changes 

Tender, sore or sensitive breasts are another early symptom of pregnancy. This discomfort results from hormonal shifts that prepare your body for lactation. You may also notice your breasts becoming fuller, heavier, or even tingling. Darkening of the areolas (the area around the nipple) is another typical change.

How do you ease breast tenderness during pregnancy?

• Wear a well-fitted, supportive bra.
• Use a warm or cold compress to alleviate discomfort.
• Opt for soft, breathable fabrics to avoid irritation.

5. Frequent urination 

During pregnancy, your kidneys work harder to filter an increased volume of blood, resulting in more trips to the bathroom. Early pregnancy hormonal changes also contribute to this symptom. While disruptive, frequent urination is a normal part of early pregnancy.

How do you manage frequent urination during pregnancy?

• Stay hydrated but reduce fluid intake a few hours before bedtime.
• Avoid diuretics like caffeine to limit excessive urination.

6. Bloating 

The increased levels of progesterone in early pregnancy can slow digestion, causing abdominal bloating. This can feel like the bloating experienced before a menstrual period. Although uncomfortable, it’s a common symptom that usually improves as your body adjusts.

How do you relieve bloating during pregnancy?

• Stay hydrated to aid digestion.
• Eat small, nutrient-dense meals rich in fiber.
• Avoid carbonated drinks and foods that can cause gas, like beans and broccoli.

7. Food cravings and aversions 

Sudden cravings or aversions to certain foods can start as early as the first few weeks of pregnancy. These changes, fueled by hormonal shifts, can make your favorite meals unappealing or leave you craving unusual combinations.

How do you manage cravings during pregnancy?

• Focus on balanced meals, incorporating fruits, vegetables, and lean proteins.
• Give yourself the occasional treat to satisfy intense cravings.
• If experiencing aversions, supplement with prenatal vitamins to ensure adequate nutrient intake.

8. Mild cramping and spotting 

Cramping and light spotting, known as implantation bleeding, can happen 10-14 days after conception as the embryo attaches to the lining of your uterus. While mild discomfort is normal, severe cramping or heavy bleeding should prompt an immediate call to your healthcare provider.

How do you cope with cramps during pregnancy?

• Take warm baths to relax muscles.
• Practice gentle stretches or prenatal yoga.
• Rest as needed and avoid heavy lifting.

9. Mood swings 

The surge of hormones like estrogen and progesterone can significantly affect your emotions. Many women experience heightened sensitivity, mood swings, or feelings that oscillate between elation and irritability. While this is common, it can feel emotionally overwhelming.

How do manage mood swings during pregnancy?

• Lean on a support network of friends and family.
• Get plenty of rest and practice self-care.
• Consider speaking with a counselor or joining a pregnancy support group if mood swings feel unmanageable.

Additional signs to be aware of: 

Other early symptoms you might notice include dizziness, lightheadedness, headaches, or even skin changes like acne or increased sensitivity to touch. Pay close attention to how your body feels, and don’t hesitate to consult a doctor for any concerns.

Final thoughts 

Recognizing the early symptoms of pregnancy puts you in control of your health and the health of your growing baby. While many signs overlap with other conditions, the best way to know for sure is by taking a home pregnancy test. Following that, connect with your healthcare provider to verify the results and begin your prenatal care.

Pregnancy brings an array of physical and emotional changes, but you don’t have to face them alone. With the right support and guidance, you can confidently prepare for the exciting journey ahead.

Learn more about obstetrics at Ochsner.