Some women seem to know almost immediately when they become pregnant, while others may not know until they miss their first periods and take a pregnancy test to confirm their suspicions. While some symptoms can be indicative of other conditions, when you put everything together, you may want to schedule your initial prenatal appointment.
Preparation
Your body prepares for pregnancy in case your egg is fertilized by your partner's sperm. During the first two weeks following unprotected intercourse, the sperm is busy fertilizing your egg. In these initial weeks, you will have no visible pregnancy symptoms. You may be able to detect the first symptoms of pregnancy from the first week following implantation of the embryo on your uterine wall. You may not exhibit any symptoms other than missing your period.
You may experience slight cramping and spotting at the time of implantation. This usually happens 7 to 14 days after conception, when the fertilized embryo attaches itself to the uterine lining. The spotting will be lighter in color and less in volume than a regular period, while the cramping will feel much like a regular menstrual period.
Initial Symptoms
Missing your period is a classic sign that you may be pregnant. Your doctor will calculate your probable due date by counting forward from the first day of your last normal period. Women are pregnant for approximately nine months, or 40 weeks. You may also feel fatigued or very tired early in your pregnancy. This is normal. It is your body's way of telling you to get additional rest (at least eight hours of sleep every night and a nap during the day if your schedule allows).
Another classic sign of pregnancy is morning sickness, which is your body's adjustment to an increase in hormones that help your pregnancy. Some women experience the nausea and vomiting throughout the day, not just in the morning. Try to stay hydrated during this period. You may urinate more frequently than you usually do. Your expanding uterus is pressing on your bladder, which means more visits to the bathroom. You may begin gaining weight; one pound per month during the first trimester is good.
Physical Signs
Your breasts may become very sore and tender to the touch because of hormonal changes. As these hormone changes begin to increase your blood circulation, you may also develop headaches. Your body will assert itself and its nutritional needs through food cravings. These cravings can come and go throughout your pregnancy. You may experience dizziness and periods of faintness, and you may even pass out early in your pregnancy. As you begin to gain weight and your uterus begins to grow to accommodate the baby, you may also develop lower back aches.
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