The Most Common Symptoms of Early Pregnancy

Finding out you’re pregnant is a very special moment. Unfortunately it can take some time to show on a pregnancy test. If you’ve been trying for a while or are just beginning your journey to becoming a mother, there are some signs that can let you know you’re on the right track.

These symptoms of early pregnancy can be expected in the first trimester and are a sign of a healthy pregnancy:

  • Nausea and/or vomiting (also known as morning sickness. See our upcoming article on this.
  • Digestive and urinary changes including a frequent urge to urinate or constipation
  • Breasts that are tender to the touch and swollen
  • Fatigue and lack of energy
  • New food cravings or a sudden distaste for certain foods you used to like
  • Changes in mood such as increased sensitivity
  • Spotting or what appears to be a light period or a missed period
  • Abdominal cramps
  • Dizziness that can lead to nausea

If you notice any of these symptoms and your period is late, you could be pregnant. Take a pregnancy test at home at first and then make an appointment with your doctor to confirm if the result is positive and the symptoms continue. Getting to your doctor as soon as possible after you become pregnant is an important step in ensuring a healthy pregnancy.

These symptoms are the result in hormonal fluctuations that happen during pregnancy. While some may persist throughout all three trimesters, most will gradually go away as your pregnancy progresses. Here are some ways to cope with these early signs of pregnancy:

  • Take charge of your diet and nutrition.
  • Cut out or at least cut down on caffeine.
  • Stay hydrated.
  • Use a heating pad to soothe cramps.
  • Get as much sleep as possible.
  • Exercise regularly.

Keeping track of your symptoms can help you get them under control. Your doctor can help steer you in the right direction. When it comes to future pregnancies, you may find you have similar early symptoms or different ones. Some old wives’ tales even suggest certain symptoms can be associated with a particular gender, but try not to invest too much emotion into those.

While these symptoms can be uncomfortable, they’re a sign of an incredible journey beginning.  So get excited!