What Are the Early Pregnancy Symptoms?

February 1, 2024

Every woman is unique and will experience early pregnancy differently than others.

While some women might have a metallic taste in their mouths, others may have nausea or experience no visible symptoms at all.

Even with this variation, common pregnancy signs and symptoms exist. According to the Mayo Clinic, here are a few you could experience in early pregnancy.

1. Missed Period

Each month, the lining of the uterus thickens to prepare for a potential pregnancy; if pregnancy does not happen, you will shed the lining during a monthly period.

No period? This could mean you’re pregnant. 

After missing a period, take a pregnancy test. If it’s negative, wait and see if your period arrives in the next week. If not, take another pregnancy test. It takes time for the pregnancy hormone, hCG, to rise to detectable levels.

2. Nausea with or without Vomiting

During pregnancy, your body goes through many hormonal changes. 

Hormones are likely the reason why some women experience “morning sickness,” which is a common term for nausea during pregnancy. Despite the name, morning sickness happens at any time of day. 

3. Light Spotting

If you see some spots of blood on your underwear and it doesn’t turn into a flow like in a period, it could be implantation bleeding. This happens when a fertilized egg implants in the lining of your uterus.

Not all women experience spotting, but it typically happens around the time you might expect your period. 

Other Pregnancy Signs and Symptoms

In addition to the above, you could notice or feel the following signs or symptoms:

• Fatigue – You might feel extra tired or sleepy. 
• Tender, swollen breasts – Your breasts may feel sensitive and sore. This symptom should subside later in pregnancy.
• Increased urination – Do you have to run to the restroom more than usual? Your body produces more blood during pregnancy, which is processed by your kidneys. The extra fluid will end up in your bladder.
• Moodiness – You could feel unusually emotional and may experience mood swings.
• Bloating – Hormonal changes cause you to feel bloated.
• Nasal Congestion – A stuffy or runny nose could also be a pregnancy symptom.
• Constipation – Hormones are also to blame for this one as they cause your digestive system to slow down.
• Food Aversions – Foods you usually like may no longer sound appetizing.
• Cramping – You could have mild uterine cramping.

Find Out for Sure at Heart to Heart.

Why wonder when you don’t have to?

Visit Heart to Heart in Laramie, Wyoming, for a no-cost pregnancy test. If the test is positive, we can also provide a limited ultrasound and other follow-up services and information.

All of our services are free and confidential. Schedule an appointment today!