Several signs of pregnancy occur in the first trimester, some of which can last for an entire pregnancy. When these signs occur, it is important to take a pregnancy test to determine if prenatal care is needed. Early prenatal care can help to ensure that a healthy baby is delivered at the end of your pregnancy.
Reproductive Changes
Several reproductive system changes signal a developing pregnancy. According to Sonoma State University, implantation bleeding can occur six to 12 days after conception. This bleeding can appear as light spotting that lasts for a few hours or a few days. One of the most recognizable reproductive changes that occurs as a sign of pregnancy is a missed menstrual period. This occurs because the rising hormone levels associated with pregnancy prevent the uterine lining from being shed. Breast changes are also one of the common signs of pregnancy. Breast swelling occurs because of the hormone surge that occurs in the first trimester. The areolas, which are the areas of skin around the nipples, also get darker during the first trimester.
Aches
Backaches and headaches are signs of pregnancy that occur due to the physical and hormonal changes associated with a developing fetus. According to the American Pregnancy Association, backaches can occur as the result of surging hormone levels, posture changes, weight gain and stress. Hormone surges that occur early in pregnancy can lead to headaches. If these aches occur, it is important to discuss treatment options with a physician. Do not take over-the-counter or prescription drugs without consulting a medical professional, as some medications can harm a fetus.
Urinary Changes
As the uterus expands to accommodate a growing fetus, pressure is placed on the bladder. This can lead to urinary changes that last for all three trimesters of pregnancy. Urinary frequency is one of the most common urinary changes. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, pregnant women also have an increased volume of body fluids, which can lead to need to urinate more often. Urinary stress incontinence can also occur during pregnancy. This type of incontinence is the result of pressure on the bladder, and can be made worse by coughing, sneezing or lifting heavy objects.
Morning Sickness
Morning sickness is the nausea, and sometimes vomiting, that occur during pregnancy. This occurs as a result of the rising hormone levels in a pregnant woman's body. While the term morning sickness implies that this only happens in the morning, morning sickness can also occur in the afternoon or evening. Women with morning sickness can ease their symptoms by eating foods that are easy to digest, and low in fat and fiber like yogurt, liquids and smoothies. Eating small meals and snacks throughout the day can also help prevent nausea associated with pregnancy.
General Signs
Fatigue and food cravings are also signs of pregnancy. Fatigue occurs because a pregnant woman's body must prepare the placenta, which provides nourishment to the fetus during the nine months of pregnancy. Rising levels of the hormone progesterone also make it easy for a pregnant woman to become fatigued. Food cravings also occur as a result of rising hormone levels and increased nourishment needs during pregnancy. Pregnant women may crave foods that are salty, spicy or sweet, or their cravings may change as pregnancy develops.
