Signs of Becoming Pregnant

A positive pregnancy test, a pelvic exam that reveals a fetus, hearing a fetal heartbeat and seeing a baby on an ultrasound are the definitive signs of pregnancy. There are other signs of pregnancy to be on the lookout for, including a swelling abdomen or feeling the baby kick. Knowing these signs and watching out for them enable you to get proper prenatal care early in your pregnancy.

Fatigue

According to the American Pregnancy Association, fatigue can start as early as the week following conception. In some cases, the fatigue is severe; however, you may simply need to add a period of rest or a short nap to your schedule if the fatigue is minor.

Menstrual Changes

A missed period may be noticed approximately two weeks following conception. In some cases, implantation bleeding, which occurs 6 to 12 days following conception, may seem like a light period. If you experience any change in your menstrual cycle, a pregnancy test is warranted.

Aches and Pains

A lower backache is common at the beginning of a pregnancy and usually continues throughout the pregnancy. Hip pain and abdominal ligament pain are also possible signs of pregnancy; however both of these usually manifest during the second or third trimester of the pregnancy. Because of the hormonal changes that occur during pregnancy, headaches are common early in pregnancy.

Breast Tenderness

One to two weeks following conception, you may notice that your breasts are swollen and tender. Your areolae may be darker. These symptoms usually last throughout the pregnancy; however, the breast tenderness may subside slightly during the second and third trimesters.

Morning Sickness and Food Aversions/Cravings

As hormones change at the beginning of the pregnancy, you may notice that you feel nauseated, especially when you don't eat for a while or when you smell strong odors. This symptom of pregnancy is called morning sickness. Morning sickness isn't limited only to the mornings; it can occur any time of day or night. Morning sickness can also lead to an aversion to some foods, especially odorous foods like onions or garlic. You may also find yourself craving foods you didn't care for prior to your pregnancy. If you begin to crave non-food items like starch or clay, contact your doctor, as this is a sign of nutritional deficiency. You may also develop heartburn after eating or drinking.

Mood Swings

Throughout your pregnancy, you may experience significant mood swings. You may be happy one minute and crying over a car insurance commercial the next. You may get angry about minor things. These mood swings are common during pregnancy and are the result of hormonal changes.

Stretch Marks

As your body changes with pregnancy, you may experience stretch marks. These can occur on any area of the body that experiences rapid growth; however, stretch marks during pregnancy are most common on the buttocks, stomach and breasts.

Changes in Bathroom Habits

Approximately six to eight weeks after conception, you may begin to urinate more often and may become constipated. These symptoms usually reduce during the second trimester; however, they may return during the third trimester.