While every pregnant woman experiences pregnancy differently, there are some common signs that you are pregnant. Not all of these signs occur for every woman, and some women experience other symptoms. The only conclusive diagnosis is a pregnancy test, which is effective if used correctly and is available at the drug or grocery store. However, it's worth knowing what the signs to help guide you with your health care choices.
No Period
The American Pregnancy Association notes that the clearest indicator for many women is a lack of a menstrual period at the regular time it's expected. Some women will experience light bleeding, called implantation bleeding as the pregnancy attaches to the wall of the uterus at the time a period might be expected. This is not to be confused with a regular period, however. It is typically much lighter than a regular period and lasts only a day or so.
Breast Tenderness
For some women, just a week or two after conception, pregnancy hormones will kick in and cause your breasts to swell and feel tender. As this is also a common side effect of a regular menstrual period, many women ignore this symptom until they realize their period hasn't arrived.
Nausea
While "morning sickness" is a bit of misnomer (many women experience nausea or vomiting at any time of the day, or specific times such as the late afternoon), this is also a clear indicator of pregnancy. Often confused with a light flu in early pregnancy, nausea or vomiting that lasts more than a few days, or that is triggered by the sight or smell of certain foods is more likely to be a sign of early pregnancy, according to the Mayo Clinic.
Fatigue
Ranking high on the list of early pregnancy symptoms is a feeling of fatigue, according to the Mayo Clinic. Your body is working hard to adjust to the growing pregnancy, increasing blood supply and ensuring your and the growing baby's health. Specifically, progesterone levels sky rocket, which can make you feel very sleepy. This combined with lowered blood sugar and lowered blood pressure can contribute to overall fatigue.
Aches and Pains
If you're experiencing headaches, this may also be a sign of pregnancy, according to the Mayo Clinic. The increased blood flow required by a healthy pregnancy along with hormone changes can cause frequent, though mild, headaches.
Backache is also a common indicator, according to the American Pregnancy Association. The lower area of the back is often affected in early pregnancy as relaxin causes the joints (especially in the pelvic region) to relax and prepare for birth. This symptom can last the entire pregnancy for some women.
