Trying to conceive can be stressful. The approximate two-week waiting period from conception to a missed period may seem like an eternity when you're trying to become pregnant. Some early symptoms of pregnancy may appear prior to a missed period. Not all women will experience the same symptoms of pregnancy, and symptoms may also vary from those of a past pregnancy.
Implantation Bleeding and Mild Cramping
Implantation bleeding can be one of the earliest pregnancy symptoms, reports the American Pregnancy Association. This occurs as the embryo implants into the uterine wall. Implantation bleeding is usually lighter in color and flow and shorter in duration than a regular menstrual period. You also may experience mild cramping that may last throughout the first trimester as your uterus begins stretching to accommodate your baby.
Breast Pain and Soreness
As early as two weeks after conception, hormonal changes may make your breasts tender, tingly or sore, states the Mayo Clinic. Breast tenderness may be similar to what you may experience prior to your menstrual period. You may also notice that the areola appears darker in color and larger in size. Depending on your skin color, you may notice the appearance of blue-colored veins underneath the skin of your breasts. Your breasts are preparing themselves for breast-feeding your new baby.
Morning Sickness
Morning sickness, which can strike at any time of the day or night, is one of the classic symptoms of pregnancy and may appear as early as two weeks following conception, states the Mayo Clinic. Morning sickness consists of nausea with or without vomiting. You may also experience food aversions, cravings and a strong sensitivity to certain odors. These symptoms are thought to be because of the rapid increase of pregnancy hormones, which slow your gastrointestinal system and make you more prone to nausea and vomiting.
Fatigue
You may experience fatigue early in your pregnancy. It's possible that hormonal changes---in particular, a dramatic rise in progesterone --- are contributing to your sluggishness, reports BabyCenter. You may feel more sleepy and tired than usual and have trouble completing your daily activities. Make sure that you get at least 8 hours of sleep each night and take a daily nap if possible, to help you feel more energic throughout the day. Most women will notice that they have more energy as they enter the second trimester.
