Although every pregnancy is different, certain signs and symptoms are common to many pregnancies. Caused primarily by soaring hormone levels, these symptoms are generally not enjoyable. However, pregnant women grin and bear them as they serve as a not-so-gentle reminder of the upcoming bundle of joy.
Nausea
Rising levels of estrogen combine with a heightened sense of smell early in pregnancy to cause nausea, which is sometimes accompanied by vomiting. A 2003 article published in the journal "American Family Physician" states that "morning sickness" affects about 80 percent of pregnant women and typically starts between four and seven weeks after the last menstrual period. However, nausea doesn't only strike in the morning; it can crop up anytime during the day. Eating small meals frequently during the day and eating simple, bland foods, such as crackers, can help combat nausea.
Food Cravings and Aversions
While cliché pickles and ice cream may not be your go-to treat, it is likely that you will crave something or other starting in the early weeks of pregnancy. In fact, BabyCenter.com reports that more than half of pregnant women experience food cravings during pregnancy. A BabyCenter.com survey found that sweets were the top craving, followed by salty snacks, then spicy food, and lastly citrus fruit and other tart or sour foods. Aversions to foods are also common. You may even find your pregnant self turning your nose up at foods you previously enjoyed. Avoiding offending smells and tastes during the sensitive early weeks of pregnancy can help prevent queasiness.
Sore Breasts
Starting as early as one to two weeks after conception, the breasts start to ready themselves to provide sustenance for the newborn. Fueled by skyrocketing estrogen and progesterone levels, the breasts begin to swell and become sensitive and sore. Not much can be done to alleviate these symptoms, but wearing a supportive bra to minimize bouncing can help.
Tiredness
Ask a group of pregnant women whether they felt tired during the first several weeks and the answer is likely to be a resounding "Yes!" According to the Mayo Clinic, rising levels of the hormone progesterone in the early weeks of pregnancy contribute towards fatigue and tiredness. When progesterone combines with other bodily changes of early pregnancy, including lower blood sugar levels, lower blood pressure, and increased blood volume, energy levels plummet. A small amount of caffeine can serve as an effective and safe pick-me-up, as can going for a brisk walk or chewing mint-flavored gum.
