Some women may go for a month or more before discovering they are pregnant. Other women may know within a week or two of conception that they are with child. Some mistake the early signs of pregnancy as premenstrual events, or even as a cold or the flu. Being in tune to the potential signs of early pregnancy, however, may clue you in before you take that home pregnancy test.
Spotting and Cramping
One of the earliest sings of pregnancy is the light bleeding that takes place when an embryo attaches itself to the uterine wall. Called implantation bleeding, this light spotting can take place anywhere from 6 to 14 days after fertilization. Spotting may or may not be accompanied by mild cramping. This early sign of pregnancy may be mistaken for the start of your next period.
Sore Breasts
Rising hormone levels can cause tenderness in your breasts and may even alter their appearance. According to the Mayo Clinic, these changes in your breasts can happen as early as 1 or 2 weeks after conception, before you miss your next period. Your breasts may look and feel swollen, and the area around the nipple may even darken.
Fatigue
Also caused by rising hormone levels, fatigue is a hallmark of early pregnancy. According to the Mayo Clinic, there are two possible reasons for this. One is that progesterone, which increases during pregnancy, can often cause drowsiness. The other is that your body begins to increase your blood supply soon after conception, which can cause low blood sugar and low blood pressure. You may feel the need to sleep longer, or you may find your daily routine much more tiring than normal.
Nausea
So-called "morning sickness" can begin as early as 2 weeks after conception, according to the American Pregnancy Association. Morning sickness is a bit of a misnomer, as nausea associated with early pregnancy can occur at any time during the day or night. The Mayo Clinic reports that pregnancy nausea may be associated with estrogen, which affects the way food is digested. Nausea may also be brought on by sensitivity to certain smells.
Headaches
Hormone levels, as well as an increasing blood supply, may cause frequent headaches early in pregnancy, though they are usually not severe. These changes in circulation can also cause lightheadedness in some women. Dizziness and fainting are not uncommon early in pregnancy, though the Mayo Clinic reports this may be caused by a drop in blood sugar, as well.
A Light or Missed Period
After the embryo implants in the uterine wall, it is still possible to have bleeding that resembles a light period. In fact, this may prevent some women from knowing they are pregnant. However, a lighter than usual period, combined with any of the previously mentioned symptoms, is often a sign of early pregnancy. Additionally, a missed period is also a good indicator that it's time to take a home pregnancy test.
