The time period from conception to a missed period is approximately two weeks. When trying to conceive, this waiting period may seem like an eternity. In those two weeks, hormonal changes in the body begin to occur as the fertilized egg makes its way down into the uterus to implant into the uterine wall. Symptoms of pregnancy may occur prior to a missed period. Not all women will experience the same signs or symptoms, and symptoms may differ from those of a past pregnancy. There are some very early signs of pregnancy that you should be aware of.
Implantation Bleeding and Mild Cramping
One of the earliest signs of pregnancy may be mild vaginal bleeding. About six to 12 days after conception, the embryo implants itself into the uterine wall, reports the American Pregnancy Association. This may cause vaginal bleeding. Implantation bleeding is usually lighter in color, flow, and duration than a normal menstrual period. It can be accompanied by mild uterine cramping. Not all women will experience implantation bleeding and cramping.
Swollen and Tender Breasts
Your breasts may provide one of the first symptoms of pregnancy, according to the Mayo Clinic. This is thought to occur as estrogen and progesterone levels begin to rise in early pregnancy. Your breasts may feel sore, tender to touch, full and heavy. Many women report extremely sore nipples during this time. You may also see changes in your breasts. The area surrounding the nipple, the areola, may appear larger in size and darker in color. You may also notice the appearance of blue colored veins beneath breast tissue. Your breasts are preparing themselves for breast feeding.
Morning Sickness
This well-known pregnancy symptom will often show up between two and eight weeks after conception, according to the American Pregnancy Association. "Morning sickness" is another term for the nausea and vomiting that may occur during pregnancy. Although it is called morning sickness, it can occur at anytime throughout the day or night. Some women also experience food aversions and food cravings during this time. Morning sickness is thought to occur in response to the rapidly increasing levels of estrogen, which slow the gastrointestinal tract. If vomiting becomes severe, you may be at risk for dehydration and should contact your obstetrician for further instruction.
