Pregnancy Symptoms may vary from one woman to another and even from one pregnancy to other. In some cases, the symptoms may become apparent within a week after conception, while in other cases, it may take a longer time. In many cases, symptoms may show up even before the woman has missed her first period.
Implantation Bleeding
This is one of the first signs of pregnancy. It usually occurs within 6 to 12 days of conception. During implantation bleeding, the woman may experience slight vaginal bleeding or spotting and cramps in the abdomen. These cramps are similar to those experienced during menstruation. When the fertilized egg travels to the uterus or womb and attaches itself to the uterine wall, it results in slight bleeding which looks dark brown or black in color.
Skipped Menstrual Period
Most women experience this symptom after they have conceived. Once the woman conceives, she will likely miss her following period. In some cases, she may have some slight bleeding, but this usually proves brief and lesser than usual.
Headaches, Backaches, Mood Swings
A sudden increase in blood circulation caused by hormonal changes may trigger mild headaches and dull but persistent pains in the lower back, quite early in the pregnancy. Furthermore, the first trimester of the pregnancy can prove particularly hard with sudden changes in mood triggered by hormonal changes. It can make the woman emotionally weak, swinging easily between emotional highs and lows. In some cases, it may cause depression as well. The Psychological Medicine journal of the Cambridge University Press says depression may have an impact on the infant's development in some cases.
Swollen or Tender Breasts
Within a week or two after conception, the woman may begin to experience soreness, swelling or tenderness in the breasts. The breasts may feel heavier and fuller than usual. Release of hormones due to conception is the primary reason for these changes to occur.
Nausea and Fatigue
According to the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, many women may experience morning sickness and nausea after conception. This proves one of the common signs of pregnancy, and it may occur as early as within 10 to 15 days after conception. It may or may not be accompanied by vomiting. During the early stages of pregnancy, the woman may also begin to experience tiredness and exhaustion. Her blood sugar and blood pressure levels may go down slightly, causing her to feel fatigued.
Aversion to certain foods, Craving for others
A typical early symptom after conception includes women suddenly developing strong likes and dislikes for certain kinds of foods and drinks. Hormonal changes within the body may induce such a sudden change in food and taste preferences.
Constipation
After conception, an increase in the production of the progesterone hormone occurs. This can cause pregnant women to have difficulty digesting food, which may lead to constipation.
