A missed or late period is the most common sign of pregnancy, and can be the first. This usually occurs around the fifth week post-conception, when a missed period is noticed or an abnormally late period is shorter and lighter than usual. But you can experience some signs and symptoms of pregnancy long before menstruation issues, at a few weeks after conception.
Breast Tenderness and Swelling
Breast changes can be felt as early as one to two weeks after conception, says the American Pregnancy Association. Such changes occur in the breast and nipple region and can range from tenderness to high sensitivity or soreness. You might also experience slight swelling, which will make your breasts appear bigger or feel heavier. These changes are the result of hormonal changes because of pregnancy.
Implantation Bleeding and Cramping
Bleeding and cramping are also among the first symptoms and can occur as early as six to 14 days after conception. The bleeding is called implantation bleeding and is caused by the implantation of the egg along the wall of the uterus post-fertilization. Implantation bleeding is usually shorter, lighter in color and spottier than a period, says MayoClinic.com. The accompanying cramps can range from slight to noticeable.
Nausea
Nausea is one of the most common and classic symptoms of pregnancy and can begin as soon as two weeks after conception. Nausea may be the result of the high levels of estrogen in your system, which will cause your stomach to empty at a slow rate. The heightened sense of smell and food aversions can also influence such nausea. Although called morning sickness, pregnancy-induced nausea can occur at any time of the day. It can also be accompanied by vomiting.
Fatigue
Fatigue can be experienced as quickly as the first week after conception, says the APA. This is because your body experiences higher amounts of progesterone, a hormone that causes extreme sleepiness, during the early stages of pregnancy. Possible contributors to this sleepiness are low blood sugar and lower blood pressure, says MayoClinic.com.
Headaches
Headaches are a common symptom and can occur before your missed or delayed menstruation. During this time, your body experiences an increase in blood circulation, MayoClinic.com says. This increase is a result of the pregnancy-induced hormonal changes. These headaches are usually mild and can occur frequently, starting a few weeks after conception.
