If you are wondering about this you are probably already anxious, nervous, and confused about what may or may not be happening to your body. I wanted to give a few clues to you that something more really might be going on. As a registered nurse completing my Nurse Practitioner degree in Women’s Health I wanted to share with you a list of the early signs of pregnancy.
1. A missed period. This is the most obvious sign of pregnancy, but it is possible for some women to bleed lightly or spot during pregnancy. Of course a missed period can be due to stress, extreme weight gain or loss, and other hormonal changes.
2. Tender breasts. This is usually one of the first signs of pregnancy. It may feel a lot like the tenderness many women get before menstruation, but it will last and be even more uncomfortable than normal. The areolas around your nipple will also become darker, and you may notice more veins that are noticeable in your breasts.
3. Fatigue. You will notice you are a lot more tired, and really want to sleep or take naps during the day when you usually do not. This could also just be from a hectic schedule or added stress in your life.
4. Headaches/Backaches. Some women have more frequent headaches in early pregnancy, and many experience backaches throughout pregnancy, but also very noticeable in early pregnancy. Both of these signs can also be explained as premenstrual symptoms.
5. Frequent urination. This typically does not start until after your first missed period. This could happen with an increased fluid intake or urinary tract infection. A urinary tract infection will often cause some burning with urination and very frequent urination with only limited output.
6. Morning sickness. Nausea with pregnancy can occur at most any time, but is more common in early pregnancy or the first trimester. Some report to have morning sickness for the duration of their pregnancy though. And just because it is called morning sickness does not mean it can’t occur and any and all times of the day or night. Another explanation could be a stomach virus.
If you feel that you may be pregnant it is important to get a pregnancy test as soon as possible so that you can start prenatal care.
