If you think you might be pregnant, one of the most natural things to do is to start looking for signs of pregnancy. Unfortunately, every person has different pregnancy symptoms. How do you know if your body is trying to tell you you’re pregnant?
That’s why we’ve put together a list of the most common early pregnancy signs and symptoms. If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, it is a good idea to call us today and schedule your free pregnancy test at our center. You can also schedule a free ultrasound, which is the most accurate way to determine gestational age and see what options are available to you.
Pregnancy Symptom 1: Bloating
In the early weeks of a pregnancy, many women feel bloated due to increased levels of the hormone progesterone. This hormone causes increased fluid retention and can lead to a feeling of bloating or “fullness.”
Pregnancy Symptom 2: Sore or Tender Breasts
For many women, their breasts start feeling tender, sensitive, or sore as early as a few days after conception. The sensations are often most noticeable down the sides of the breasts. Soreness is a result of the increased production of the estrogen and progesterone hormones. Breasts are often especially achy during a woman’s first pregnancy.
Pregnancy Symptom 3: Nausea and Vomiting
Many women experience nausea during early pregnancy, and “morning sickness” is still one of the most common indicators of being pregnant. The biological reason for nausea during early pregnancy is not completely clear, but it is likely to be linked to increased hormone production.
Pregnancy Symptom 4: Fatigue, Tiredness, or Soreness
Most women experience increased tiredness and fatigue during early pregnancy as the body increases hormone production and starts directing resources to the growing baby. Fatigue and tiredness can also lead to moodiness and stress along with the physical effects.
Pregnancy Symptom 5: Cramping
Cramps are one of the most common early pregnancy symptoms, but they can be hard to detect because they are very similar to normal menstrual cramps. Cramping typically occurs when the uterus expands, causing supporting ligaments and muscles to stretch. Some women may even have light spotting - known as “implantation bleeding” - that fools them into thinking they’re having a menstrual period.
Pregnancy Symptom 6: Frequent Urination
Hormonal changes during early pregnancy have the effect of increasing urine production. Additionally, as your uterus expands to accommodate your baby, it presses on your bladder. This all leads to the need to “go” more frequently.
Pregnancy Symptom 7: Positive Pregnancy Test
The most reliable method of determining if you are pregnant is to take a pregnancy test. Pregnancy tests detect the presence of HCG hormone in your body. This hormone is only produced when you are pregnant, so if you get a positive test it is almost sure to be accurate.
However, it’s important to make sure you take the test correctly to prevent false negatives. At Ava Women’s Center, we can provide you with a free pregnancy test at our clinic and help make sure your results are accurate. Simply call 844-371-4282 today to schedule your free appointment.