First Signs of Pregnancy: How to Recognise Early Symptoms

Pregnancy can be an exciting yet overwhelming experience, especially when it comes to identifying those first symptoms. If you’re wondering, “How do I know if I’m pregnant?” or “What are the most common signs of pregnancy?”—you’re not alone. Here’s an in-depth look at early symptoms, both common and less well-known, to help guide you through those initial weeks of pregnancy.

What are the First Symptoms of Pregnancy?

For many, a missed period is the first sign of pregnancy, but other physical and emotional changes often signal this new journey as well. Here’s a deeper look at some early symptoms:

Missed Period 

If your cycle is usually regular, a missed period might be your first clue that something has changed. This occurs because, once pregnancy begins, your body stops releasing eggs each month, so menstruation is put on hold. For women with irregular cycles, other symptoms may be the first indicators before a missed period is noticed.

Fatigue 

Pregnancy is a time of rapid hormonal changes, and your body is working overtime to support the baby’s development. This increased demand can leave you feeling unusually tired or even exhausted, often early on. Many women find they need more rest than usual or experience sudden drowsiness throughout the day.

Tender, Swollen Breasts

One of the body’s early responses to pregnancy is increased estrogen and progesterone levels, which prepare the breasts for breastfeeding. This hormonal shift can cause the breasts to feel more sensitive, fuller, or even sore, often making bras feel tighter than usual. This sensation may decrease after a few weeks as your body adjusts to the hormone levels.

Nausea or Morning Sickness

Contrary to its name, “morning” sickness can happen at any time of day. Around the sixth week of pregnancy, many women begin to feel waves of nausea, which can be mild or severe. This queasiness has been attributed to the rising hormone levels and heightened sense of smell, which can make certain scents overwhelming. For some, nausea is accompanied by vomiting, and it typically subsides by the end of the first trimester.

Frequent Urination

Increased blood flow to your kidneys is another early sign of pregnancy, causing your kidneys to process more fluid than usual. Coupled with the expanding uterus pressing on the bladder, you may find yourself heading to the bathroom more frequently. This symptom often appears early in pregnancy and tends to become more pronounced as the pregnancy progresses.

Each of these symptoms reflects the complex changes happening in your body as it adapts to nurture new life. Recognising these signs can help you tune in to your body and understand the early stages of your pregnancy journey.

Less Common Pregnancy Symptoms

While certain pregnancy symptoms like nausea and fatigue are well-known, some early signs are less frequently discussed but can still be meaningful indicators. Here’s a closer look at some of these lesser-known symptoms and what they might mean:

Spotting or Light Bleeding 

Known as implantation bleeding, this occurs when the fertilised egg attaches to the uterine lining, typically around 6-12 days after conception. Unlike a regular period, implantation bleeding is usually lighter in colour—often pink or brown—and doesn’t last as long, usually only a day or two. Though it can be surprising, this is generally a normal part of early pregnancy for some women. If you observe any sign of blood – light, heavy, persistent or occasional spotting – it’s best to see your GP or care provider.

Metallic Taste (Dysgeusia) 

Some women notice a persistent metallic taste in their mouths in the early weeks of pregnancy, a condition known as dysgeusia. This odd sensation is believed to be caused by rising estrogen levels and changes in taste sensitivity. It can make certain foods taste “off” or strange, even if they’re favorites. Eating sour or acidic foods, like citrus fruits, or drinking more water might help reduce the taste.

Nasal Congestion and Nosebleeds 

Hormone fluctuations, particularly elevated estrogen, can cause an increase in blood flow to the mucous membranes, including those in the nose. This can lead to a stuffy or runny nose, increased mucus production, and even occasional nosebleeds. Known as “pregnancy rhinitis,” this symptom can sometimes persist throughout pregnancy, making it helpful to have tissues on hand or consider using a humidifier to keep airways comfortable.

Changes in Libido 

The hormonal shifts in early pregnancy can impact libido, either increasing or decreasing sex drive. For some, heightened sensitivity and blood flow can lead to an increased interest in intimacy, while others may feel less interested due to fatigue or other symptoms. These fluctuations are normal, and it’s best to follow your body’s cues and communicate openly with your partner.

Increased Saliva Production 

Some women experience an unusual increase in saliva, especially early in pregnancy. Known as “ptyalism gravidarum,” this symptom is sometimes linked to nausea or morning sickness and can add to the feeling of queasiness. Chewing gum or sucking on hard candy may help manage excess saliva.

Digestive Changes 

Beyond the common bloating or mild cramping, some women notice unexpected digestive shifts, like changes in bowel habits or an increased sensitivity to certain foods. This can manifest as constipation or loose stools, depending on individual reactions to hormone changes.

Constipation 

One early sign of pregnancy can be constipation, caused by increased progesterone slowing down digestion. To ease this, aim to drink about 2 litres of water daily and try gentle movement, like walking, to support digestion.

How to Recognise Pregnancy Early: Tips for Accurate Detection

Track Your Period 

If you’re tracking your menstrual cycle, a missed period can be a reliable early sign.

Take a Home Pregnancy Test 

Pregnancy tests are most accurate when taken after a missed period.

Look for Physical Changes 

Fatigue, nausea, or breast tenderness may appear in the first few weeks.

Trust Your Intuition 

Sometimes, a feeling of being “different” or “off” can be an early hint.

How does a doctor test to see if you're pregnant

A doctor can confirm pregnancy using two primary types of tests:

#1 Urine Test 

Similar to home pregnancy tests, a urine test at the doctor's office detects the presence of human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG), the hormone produced after a fertilized egg attaches to the uterine lining. These tests are typically very accurate and can detect pregnancy shortly after a missed period.

#2 Blood Test 

There are two types of blood tests a doctor might use:

• Qualitative hCG Test: This test checks if hCG is present in the blood, providing a simple “yes” or “no” answer regarding pregnancy. It’s often effective 7-12 days after conception, sometimes before a missed period.
• Quantitative hCG Test (Beta hCG Test): This test measures the exact amount of hCG in the blood, helping to detect pregnancy earlier and monitor how it's progressing. It’s also helpful in assessing potential issues with the pregnancy or detecting conditions like ectopic pregnancy.

Blood tests are more sensitive and can provide more information than urine tests, which is why doctors might choose them for early detection or if there’s a need for closer monitoring.

What should I do after I find out I'm pregnant?

After confirming your pregnancy, here are a few key steps to take:

Schedule a prenatal appointment: Your doctor will set up an initial visit to confirm the pregnancy, calculate your due date, and provide advice for a healthy pregnancy.

Take time to reflect: Finding out you’re pregnant can bring up a lot of emotions, especially if it wasn’t planned. Allow yourself some time to process how you feel without pressure. Think about your life circumstances, goals, and support system, and try to get clarity on what’s best for you.

Start or continue taking prenatal vitamins: Prenatal vitamins with folic acid are important for fetal development, especially in the early weeks.

First Ultrasound (Dating Scan): Around weeks 8-9, your doctor may suggest a dating ultrasound. This scan confirms the baby’s heartbeat, verifies the gestational age, and helps accurately estimate your due date.

Adopt a pregnancy-safe lifestyle: This may include avoiding alcohol, quitting smoking, and limiting caffeine intake. Discuss any necessary diet or lifestyle adjustments with your healthcare provider.

Educate yourself: Read up on what to expect during each trimester and consider joining prenatal support groups or classes for guidance and community.

Understand Your Options: If you decide not to continue with the pregnancy, it’s essential to know the choices available to you. Access to certain options can depend on local laws and how far along you are, so consulting a healthcare provider is crucial to understanding the procedures, timelines, and safety aspects.

All content and media on the Mother Natal website are created and published online for informational purposes only. It is not intended to substitute professional medical advice and should not be relied on as health or personal advice.

FAQs

1. How soon can I feel pregnancy symptoms?
   Some women feel symptoms as early as one to two weeks after conception, though others may not notice anything until they miss a period.
2. Do all women experience the same symptoms?
   No, symptoms vary widely. Some may experience morning sickness, while others may not have any symptoms.
3. Can I be pregnant without any symptoms?
   Studies suggest that about 10-25% of women experience no noticeable symptoms during early pregnancy. This means that while many women go through common symptoms like nausea, fatigue, or breast tenderness, a significant number may not notice any early signs.
4. How do I know if my symptoms are pregnancy-related?
   A home pregnancy test is a quick way to confirm, but a healthcare provider can provide a definitive answer.
5. How early will a pregnancy test work?
   Most home pregnancy tests are effective about 10 to 14 days after conception or around the time of a missed period. Some highly sensitive tests may detect pregnancy a few days earlier, but for best results, test after a missed period.
6. When should I visit a doctor for pregnancy confirmation?
   It’s generally recommended to see a doctor as soon as you get a positive result on a home pregnancy test or if you miss a period and experience early pregnancy symptoms. The doctor can confirm the pregnancy through a blood test or ultrasound and estimate how far along you are. Early prenatal visits also allow your healthcare provider to assess your health, address any concerns, and start you on prenatal vitamins if you aren’t already taking them.

References 

Your care during pregnancy. Australian Government. Retrieved from https://www.qld.gov.au/health/children/pregnancy/antenatal-information/your-care-during-pregnancy/ultrasounds-during-pregnancy

Pregnancy Testing. Better Health: Victoria State Government. Retrieved from https://www.betterhealth.vic.gov.au/health/healthyliving/pregnancy-testing