What are the signs of early pregnancy?
Every pregnancy is different and not everyone will notice all of these symptoms. If you are worried about any symptoms you are having, talk to your GP , or midwife if you have one yet.
So. What are the early signs of pregnancy?
Missed or lighter period
If you have a regular monthly menstrual cycle, the earliest and most reliable sign of pregnancy is a missed period.
In the first few weeks of pregnancy you may have a bleed similar to a very light period, with some spotting or only losing a little blood. This is called ‘implantation bleeding’.
Feeling sick during pregnancy
You may feel sick or be sick. Although commonly known as ‘morning sickness’, vomiting and morning sickness can happen at any time of the day or night.
Symptoms usually start when you are around 4 to 6 weeks pregnant.
If you are being sick all the time and cannot keep anything down, talk to your midwife. You may have hyperemesis gravidarum, a serious condition in pregnancy that causes severe vomiting and needs treatment – even hospital admission for a drip.
Feeling tired is common in pregnancy
It is common to feel tired, or even exhausted, during pregnancy, especially during the first 12 weeks or so. Hormonal changes in your body at this time can make you feel tired, sick, emotional and upset.
Sore breasts in early pregnancy
Your breasts may become larger and feel tender, just as they might do before your period. They may also tingle. The veins may be more visible, and the nipples may darken and stand out.
Strange tastes, smells and cravings
During early pregnancy, you may find you no longer like some foods or drinks you used to enjoy. You might notice:
- A strange taste in your mouth, which some describe as metallic
- You crave new foods
- You lose interest in certain foods or drinks you used to enjoy, such as tea, coffee or fatty food
- You lose interest in smoking
- You’re more sensitive to certain smells, for example the smell of food or cooking.
Summary
We have explained what are the signs of early pregnancy. We hope you understand them better now.
