Do All Women Get Early Symptoms of Pregnancy?
Every
woman is different. So are her experiences of pregnancy. Not every
woman has the same symptoms or even the same symptoms from one pregnancy
to the next.
Also, because the early symptoms of pregnancy are often like what happens right before and during menstruation, those symptoms aren't always recognized.
What
follows is a description of some of the most common early symptoms of
pregnancy. You should know that these symptoms may be caused by other
things besides being pregnant. So the fact that you notice some of these
symptoms does not necessarily mean you are pregnant. The only way to
tell for sure is with a pregnancy test.
Spotting and Cramping
A few days after
conception, the fertilized egg attaches itself to wall of the uterus. This can cause one of the earliest signs of pregnancy --
spotting and, sometimes, cramping.
That's called implantation bleeding. It occurs anywhere from six to 12 days after the egg is fertilized.
The
cramps resemble menstrual cramps, so some women mistake them and the
bleeding for the start of their period. The bleeding and cramps,
however, are slight.
Besides bleeding, a woman may notice a white, milky discharge from her
vagina.
That's related to the thickening of the vagina's walls, which starts
almost immediately after conception. The increased growth of cells
lining the vagina causes the discharge.
This
discharge, which can continue throughout pregnancy, is typically
harmless and doesn't require treatment. But if there is a bad smell
related to the discharge or a burning and
itching sensation,
tell your doctor so they can check on whether you have a yeast or bacterial infection.
Breast Changes
Breast
changes are another very early sign of pregnancy. A woman's hormone
levels rapidly change after conception. Because of the changes, her
breasts may become swollen, sore, or tingly a week or two later. Or they
may feel heavier or fuller or feel tender to the touch. The area around
the nipples, called the areola, may also darken.
Other
things could cause breast changes. But if the changes are an early
symptom of pregnancy, keep in mind that it is going to take several
weeks to get used to the new levels of hormones. But when it does,
breast pain should ease up.
Shortness of Breath
Do you get winded going up the stairs all of a sudden? It might be
because you’re pregnant. The growing fetus needs oxygen, leaving you a
little short. Sorry to say, this one may continue throughout your
pregnancy, especially as your growing baby starts to put pressure on
your lungs and diaphragm.
Fatigue
You didn't even make it through one page of your book last night
before falling asleep. If you're suddenly exhausted, it might be a
response to the increasing hormones in your body. For many women,
tiredness continues through the first trimester, but then ebbs in the
second.
Nausea
Most pregnant women start to get the queasies when they're about 6
weeks along, but some can experience morning sickness (which
unfortunately can occur morning, noon and night) earlier. It will most
likely subside as you enter the second trimester. In the mean time, try
to eat foods that will settle your stomach, like crackers or ginger ale
If you suddenly find
yourself unable to sleep through the night without a trip to the loo, it
might be a sign. During pregnancy your body produces extra fluids,
which has your bladder working overtime - and you taking a lot of pee
breaks.
Headaches
More early signs of pregnancy include an aching head, a result of
changes in hormones. Just in case you are indeed pregnant, take pg-safe
acetaminophen instead of ibuprofen to deal with the pain.
Backaches
Is your lower back a little sore? If you don't normally have back
pain, it could mean your ligaments are loosening. Sorry, this one might
continue through your pregnancy as your weight gain and shifting center
of gravity throw your posture out of whack.
Cravings or Food Aversions
Suddenly, you cannot get enough citrus. Or perhaps fish now turns
your stomach. If you notice food issues that weren't there before, it
could be your body telling you you're pregnant.
Mood Swings
WWIII erupted over your husband's failure to put his socks in the
hamper. Moody much? If you're feeling a little hormonal, if might be
because your body is adjusting to well, new hormones. Assure your
husband that the roller coaster emotions will pass.
Super Smell
Your garbage can now makes you gag -- guess you're off trash duty! If
you're repulsed by certain smells, or have an increased sensitivity to
odors, it may mean you've got a bun in the oven.
