Very Early Symptoms of Pregnancy
Every pregnancy is different. There are some women who experience early symptoms of pregnancy within the first few weeks after conception while others may only notice changes later. Early symptoms of pregnancy can be similar to those of a menstrual period, making it difficult for women to distinguish them.
The symptoms of pregnancy vary among women. Even when they have the same symptoms, it may be different in terms of severity or character. Even the same woman may not experience the same symptoms in different pregnancies. If in doubt if one is pregnant, it is best to seek professional opinion as early prenatal care is crucial for the healthy development of a child.
1. Pregnancy Planning
Pregnancy planning generally involves both the woman, her partner, and her healthcare team. It will involve various aspects of the pregnancy such as proper nutrition, vitamins, genetic counseling, avoidance of certain medications, avoidance of alcohol, quitting tobacco use, vaccinations, management of existing conditions, exercise, and more. The management of existing conditions is important as some medication can cause birth defects. However, some women have conditions that require medication to control them. In these cases, an appropriate substitute will be required. Pregnancy planning is important as it also allows the woman to properly prepare their body for a potential pregnancy. For example, women who are planning to conceive are recommended to take 400 micrograms of folic acid daily as this has been proven to decrease the risk of major birth defects in the baby’s spine and brain.
2. Fatigue
Fatigue or tiredness is extremely common in pregnancy. Women who are pregnant often feel exhausted or tired, especially in the first few weeks of pregnancy as the hormonal changes in the body causes the woman to feel emotional, nauseous, and tired.
Those who feel fatigued should try to rest as much as possible as it can be challenging to cope with pregnancy, especially for first-time mothers. Fatigue can be attributed to the hormone progesterone, which functions to help maintain the pregnancy and encourage the development of the breasts. Be more open to accepting help from family and friends and recognize your own limits. Rest in early pregnancy is important as it can become difficult to get restful sleep once the baby gets bigger. Fatigue is noticeable as early as 1 week after conception.
3. Nausea and Vomiting
Nausea and vomiting in pregnancy is often known as morning sickness. Despite the name, nausea and vomiting during pregnancy can occur at any time of the day. It is often one of the earliest symptom of pregnancy. Although mostly occurring in the first trimester (12 weeks), there are some women who have it throughout their pregnancy.
It can be managed via sipping ginger ale, taking medications as prescribed, and more. Nausea and vomiting can be triggered or worsened by specific odors, foods, and heat. It usually decreases once the pregnancy enters the second trimester. Women who have severe nausea and vomiting should seek medical attention as it can result in complications such as dehydration.
4. Spotting
The term “spotting” refers to light bleeding that commonly occurs in the early stages of pregnancy. It usually results in a few drops of blood on the underwear and is not enough to cover a panty liner. Spotting occurs in about 20% of women during their first trimester.
It is lighter than the usual menstrual period and the color can range from pink to brown. While it may be concerning to see blood stains on the underwear while being pregnant, many women who experience spotting go on to have healthy pregnancies and a normal delivery. If in doubt, it is always best to seek professional medical opinion to ensure the pregnancy is healthy and progressing normally.
5. Breast Changes
Breast swelling or tenderness is also a common symptom in early pregnancy. These changes can even be observed as early as 1 to 2 weeks after conception. This is due to the physiological changes in the body due to the pregnancy. One survey reported that 17% of their study participants said that breast changes were their first observed changes during pregnancy.
In the first 12 weeks of pregnancy (first trimester), the woman may experience sore, tingly, or heavy breasts while the nipples can also become sensitive or painful when touched. These changes are thought to be due to the hormone levels in the body, which causes increased blood flow to the breast tissue. With the progression of the pregnancy, the breasts may even enlarge and go up one or two sizes. This rapid growth leads to stretching of the skin, which can cause itchiness. Prominent blue veins may also appear.
6. Missed Period
Women who have regular menstrual cycles should have their period after a certain duration. Some women may have it once every 25 to 30 days. Depending on each individual, it can be as short as 21 days or longer than 35 days. A missed period is the hallmark of pregnancy since menstruation is absent throughout pregnancy.
However, this is not reliable for those who have irregular menstrual cycles. Based on the American Pregnancy Association, as many as 29% of women who were surveyed reported a missed period as their first symptom of pregnancy. Other causes of a missed period include weight changes, stress, strenuous exercise, thyroid conditions, early menopause, use of hormonal birth control, diabetes, celiac disease, and more.
7. Bloating
Abdominal bloating usually causes discomfort as the abdomen feels distended and tight. It can happen to any individual and is usually due to gastrointestinal causes such as irritable bowel syndrome, overeating, and constipation.
It is also one of the early symptoms in pregnancy as the increasing levels of progesterone lowers the motility of the digestive track and causes the abdomen to feel bloated. This also occurs during premenstrual syndrome but stops once menstruation begins (as progesterone levels plummet). To help reduce bloating during pregnancy, opt for smaller but more frequent meals, slow down during eating, eat more fiber, drink plenty of water, avoid beans, and try to relax.
8. Mood Swings
Mood swings are a common symptom during pregnancy. It can be attributed to changes in the body’s metabolism, fluctuating levels of the hormones progesterone and estrogen, fatigue, stress, and more. Many mothers also become overwhelmed, especially if they are new to motherhood.
Many have constant worries regarding finances, health of the baby, preparation for the arrival of a new family member, and about being a good parent. The changes in the hormone levels can also affect the neurotransmitters in the brain that regulate mood. Mood swings are most common during 6 to 10 weeks after conception (first trimester) and again during the third trimester when the body is preparing for the birth of the child. To manage mood swings, get plenty of rest, eat well, have a regular exercise routine, try meditation, and take time for yourself. Seek professional help if there is prolonged depression or anxiety.
9. Food Aversions and Cravings
Food cravings and aversions are extremely common during pregnancy. It is estimated that as many as 50% to 90% of pregnant women have cravings while many have aversions to foods they usually love. This usually starts during the end of the first trimester and intensifies during the second trimester.
Many also experience at least one aversion or repulsion. Those who experience aversions may also have nausea and vomiting. Aversions and cravings are thought to be due to hormones, a need for comfort food, nutritional need, and abnormal taste or sense of smell. Some women start craving for dishes from their upbringing or culture as it helps comfort them. Try to avoid indulging cravings that are bad nutritionally.
10. Headaches
A headache refers to pain that is felt in the head, face, or neck. Headaches can be debilitating as they affects relationships and employment. They also increase the risk of depression. Causes of headaches include dehydration, stress, sleep deprivation, fatigue, loud noises, and more.
Headaches are common in early pregnancy (first trimester) and during the third trimester. In the first trimester, the surge of hormones causes an increase in blood volume, resulting in frequent headaches. This is compounded by factors such as stress, fatigue, changes in vision, and poor posture. Women who have headaches during pregnancy can try meditation, get plenty of rest, practice good posture, have a regular exercise routine, and apply cold or heat packs to the head. Some doctors will recommend acetaminophen (paracetamol).
