Imagine how distressing it would be if you started prenatal care late because you didn't realize you were pregnant. According to the American Pregnancy Association, some women don't experience symptoms, but for those who do, signs may be subtle or develop over time. If you suspect pregnancy, home pregnancy tests are the most accurate if used one week after a missed period. Testing first thing in the morning when pregnancy hormones are highest in urine is also a good idea.
Missed Menstrual Period
A missed period is a well-known sign of pregnancy. Spotting or bleeding can occur however, and may be mistaken for a regular period. This type of bleeding is caused by the egg attaching to the uterus and is often lighter than a normal period.
Upset Stomach
Often called morning sickness, a better name might be day or night sickness. Nausea can be felt at any time. Causes of this symptom are thought to be changes in the level of estrogen which can affect digestion of food. This symptom shows up around two to eight weeks after conception. This symptom may or may not be accompanied by vomiting.
Swelling
Breasts may be swollen and sore, beginning as early as a week after conception. This is caused by changes in hormone levels. It may be harder to button pants due to a puffy and bloated abdomen even very early in pregnancy.
Feeling Under the Weather
Pregnancy causes blood vessels to dilate which can cause a drop in blood pressure, which in turn will cause a feeling of faintness. Faintness is normal during pregnancy. Unexplained tiredness when you are getting enough sleep is a frequent symptom in early pregnancy. Most women need extra rest during pregnancy.
Positive Pregnancy Test
Home pregnancy tests are accurate and readily available. They work by testing for human chorionic gonadotropin or HCG, a hormone that is in the urine only during pregnancy. A doctor can use a more sensitive test to measure HCG in the blood. Available over-the-counter in drugstores, most pregnancy test kits have a stick with an indicator window that is held in the urine stream. After waiting the amount of time recommended, the indicator will signal signal positive or negative.
Physician Observations
According to Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, certain observations made by a doctor are considered proof of pregnancy. Fetal heart or movement sounds detected in an exam are sure signs of pregnancy. Fetal movement felt by a doctor, or when a doctor is able to detect a sac in the uterus also confirm a pregnancy.
