How many weeks pregnant are you? You may not know yet! Here are ten early signs and symptoms of pregnancy, so you can find out as soon as possible. The sooner you realize that you're pregnant, the sooner you can make an appointment with your doctor to confirm it and discuss your health care options (which will depend on how far along you are). If your period is late, don't take this quiz right away. Use a pregnancy test first, and wait until that comes back positive before moving forward with the rest of this quiz.
1) Missed Period
If you're trying to conceive, you will have a lot of questions. Many women ask a common first question: What are some early signs and symptoms of pregnancy? If your period is more than a week late, it's important to take action to confirm whether or not you might be pregnant. Some women may mistake menstrual irregularities for pregnancy, but hormonal imbalances commonly cause irregular periods. The only way to determine whether or not you are pregnant is by taking a pregnancy test. Still unsure? Talk with your doctor about scheduling an appointment for blood work.
2) Nausea
While nausea can be a symptom of pregnancy, it is also a sign that your body undergoes some very dramatic chemical changes. Nausea is often referred to as morning sickness because it occurs around mealtimes (or, most commonly, within one hour after eating). If you are experiencing severe morning sickness or frequent vomiting, call your doctor immediately; severe vomiting in pregnancy can lead to dehydration and other complications.
3) Fatigue
As a result of elevated progesterone levels, fatigue can be one of your earliest pregnancy symptoms. This hormone increase may also account for your feelings of nausea and food cravings. If you've been exercising regularly, it's recommended that you stop working out during pregnancy. The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists states that exercise is safe for most pregnant women but cautions against activities such as high-impact aerobics, contact sports, scuba diving, gymnastics or jumping rope as they can put you at risk for problems with vaginal bleeding or early labor. Some women find that yoga or gentle exercises like walking are best suited to their changing needs during pregnancy; many women start prenatal yoga classes in their second trimester to help them learn stretches appropriate for use during labor.
4) Increased Sex Drive
Sex drive is also sometimes affected by pregnancy. Some women find that they have an increased sex drive during pregnancy, while others experience a drop in libido. There is no real reason for these changes; it's just something that happens for some pregnant women as hormones fluctuate. Suppose you are one of those who find your sex drive increasing. In that case, you'll be happy to know there's no need to worry about getting pregnant if you choose to engage in intercourse more often during your pregnancy: If ejaculation occurs outside of your vagina or near it, sperm can't travel far enough to reach an egg.
5) Swollen/Tender Breasts
Swollen or tender breasts can be one of many early signs of pregnancy. This symptom typically presents within three to seven days after conception, though it could appear a few days before you realize you're pregnant. It's common for your breasts to increase in size by up to 30 per cent during pregnancy; they may also feel more sensitive or sore. While swollen/tender breasts are a common sign of pregnancy, it's possible that they could be caused by an unrelated health condition like an infection, especially if accompanied by other symptoms like fever, aches and pains, etc. If you experience these symptoms outside of your normal period or after having sexual intercourse without protection (or with a new partner), talk to your doctor as soon as possible.
6) Hunger Pangs
If you're struggling to stay pregnant, pregnancy symptoms can be hard to identify. You might expect morning sickness or fatigue, but what about tiredness or hunger? By week 8, you may have some unusual cravings (or intense aversions) – like pickles or fish – that could be early signs of pregnancy. After about week 12, you will probably notice symptoms like more frequent urination than usual and slight swelling in your abdomen. Hunger pangs might lead you to eat more often than normal, despite having few appetites for anything in particular. These symptoms can indicate pregnancy at any point between weeks 5-12! All women are different; see your doctor if you are unsure of what's going on!
7) Frequent Urination
Frequent urination is probably one of the most common pregnancy symptoms. When you are pregnant, your body produces a hormone called human chorionic gonadotropin (HCG). This hormone causes your kidneys to retain water, which often leads to increased bathroom trips throughout pregnancy. While frequent urination can be uncomfortable for many women, it's a great sign for expecting mothers—it means that your body is doing what it should! If you find yourself going to the bathroom more frequently than usual and nothing seems to help, try tracking how many times you go (using a notebook or app) over several days.
8) Frequent Nose Bleeds
Though uncommon, nosebleeds are possible during pregnancy. As blood vessels in your body relax during early pregnancy, you may notice that you're more prone to nosebleeds. The good news is that these symptoms should go away after 12 weeks as your body readjusts itself to its normal state. If you're experiencing other unpleasant signs and symptoms (such as bloating or nausea), try using a cold compress on your face or elevating your head when sleeping. While it isn't necessarily a symptom of pregnancy, painless vaginal bleeding is also not uncommon during early pregnancy—it can be a sign that an egg has been fertilized by sperm. This symptom should disappear quickly if it occurs after intercourse during a period.
9) Sore Belly/Stomach Cramps
Soon after conception, women may experience some mild abdominal cramping that some interpret as early pregnancy symptoms. This often happens between 6-12 days after ovulation. Hormones are causing changes within your uterus, which can cause cramping similar to what you may feel when you have your period. These aches usually disappear by mid-pregnancy.
10) Mood Swings
You may be curious about your changing emotions during pregnancy. While some mood swings are a normal part of any pregnancy, it's important to know when to speak with your doctor about changes in your mood or how you feel. When you think something is off, you should always let your doctor know so he or she can determine if there is an underlying medical cause for that change in mood. For example, extreme stress could lead to depression during pregnancy.
