Early Signs of Pregnancy

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Early Symptoms & Signs Less Common Signs of Pregnancy

Knowing you are pregnant sooner affords you an early start on a healthier pregnancy for both you and your baby.

Most women know the basic early signs of pregnancy, especially a expected period. But that's not the only sign. If you're wondering whether or not you're pregnant, it's probably time to take a pregnancy test – especially if you're experiencing any of the following early pregnancy symptoms.

Early Symptoms & Signs

Morning Sickness

Or, afternoon sickness. Or, evening sickness. Nausea – with or without vomiting – can occur any time of day starting as early as three weeks after conception and it’s one of the most common early signs of pregnancy. These bouts can be caused by rapidly rising hormone levels, which cause the stomach to empty more slowly.

Frequent Urination

Many women find themselves taking more trips to the bathroom, especially at night. These frequent trips only add to fatigue (also a symptom).

Fatigue

Early on, progesterone levels peak, making you feel sleepy. High progesterone — combined with lower blood sugar levels, lower blood pressure and increased blood production — may leave you feeling drained. Take it easy and get that sleep while you can.

Tender, Swollen Breasts

Often, one of the first early pregnancy signs women notice is that their breasts may feel tingly or sore as early as two to three weeks after conception. They may also feel fuller or heavier.

Food Cravings or Aversions

Like most early signs of pregnancy, food preferences are typically thought to be the result of hormonal changes, especially during the dramatic shifts of the first trimester.

Less Common Signs of Pregnancy

Slight Bleeding or Cramping

Sometimes women notice a small amount of bleeding, known as implantation bleeding, very early on in pregnancy. This happens when a fertilized egg attaches to the lining of the uterus around 10-14 days after fertilization. Sometimes mistaken for a period, it's usually lighter, spottier and happens earlier.

Mood Swings

Another effect of those raging hormones in the first trimester, you may feel unusually emotional or weepy.

Dizziness

Low blood pressure and dilating blood vessels early in pregnancy, along with low blood sugar, can cause you to feel lightheaded. Take care to keep yourself safe.

Constipation

Increased production of progesterone means food makes its way through your intestines slower, leading to constipation. The iron in prenatal vitamins often exaggerates the problem.

All of these early signs are a good guide to help you determine if you may be pregnant, but they don’t provide definitive answers. If you are experiencing any of them, you may wish to take a pregnancy test.

The FIRST RESPONSE™ Early Result Pregnancy Test that can tell you 5 days before your expected period. No other brand tell you sooner! ¹ Schedule an appointment with your doctor to confirm the results, and always check with your physician regarding any issues concerning your health. Because knowing sooner makes a difference.

¹ FIRST RESPONSE™ detects the pregnancy hormone 6 days sooner than your missed period (5 days sooner than your expected period)⁴

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