For many women, the hardcore proof of pregnancy is in the results of a pregnancy test. The Mayo Clinic notes, however, that some women begin experiencing the earliest symptoms before they miss their first period. If you are among this group of women who are hoping--or even suspecting--that you may be pregnant, listening to your body can be all the proof you need.
Implantation Bleeding
One of the earliest signs of pregnancy according to both the Mayo Clinic and the American Pregnancy Association is implantation bleeding, which occurs once the fertilized egg attaches itself to the lining of the uterus. Unlike your regular menses, it is light in color and has a tendency to come and go, hence its layman's term "spotting". You will notice this approximately one week before your period is due to arrive.
Breast Tenderness
Your breasts begin to swell or may be tender to touch within one to two weeks after conception. This is due to the rapid increase of hormones your body produces to help support the pregnancy. You may notice it more when you exercise, dress yourself or in the evening as you try to get comfortable in bed.
Fatigue
The hormone progesterone is one of the hormones produced in excess early on by your body. Not only does this increased production result in lower blood sugar levels and lower blood pressure, it also robs you of your energy, according to the Mayo Clinic.
Nausea/Vomiting
Better known as morning sickness, this is one of the classic signs of pregnancy. The American Pregnancy Association explains that it can occur as early as two weeks after conception and can affect a woman any time of the day. Some women suffer solely from nausea, while others experience both nausea and vomiting.
Constipation
Another side effect of an increase in progesterone levels, constipation occurs as a result of food passing more slowly through the intestines. This is another early sign of pregnancy, according to the Mayo Clinic.
Darkening Areolas
The areola is the dark ring surrounding your nipple. Near the time you would be expecting your period, this area may become darker and increase in diameter. This is in preparation for breastfeeding your infant, as the darker areola helps your infant find his way to your breast.
Increased Basal Body Temperature
Your basal body temperature refers to your temperature upon waking. For those trying to get pregnant, this is an excellent sign of pregnancy. Your basal temperature rises when you begin ovulating, and remains elevated until your next period. If conception occurs, your temperature remains high for more than two weeks. You must, however, chart your temperature every morning at the same time for this to be a sure sign.
Food Cravings/Aversions
During your first trimester, your hormonal changes are the most dramatic. These hormonal changes are the cause of food cravings and aversions. You may find yourself wanting foods you could never tolerate or becoming sick to your stomach by just smelling foods you once enjoyed.
Feeling Faint or Dizzy
Feeling faint or dizzy may be the result of an increase in progesterone, which causes a drop in your blood sugar. They may also result from a dilation in your blood vessels, resulting in a drop in your blood pressure.
Headaches
Another early sign of pregnancy according to both the Mayo Clinic and American Pregnancy Association are headaches, which may occur due to the increase in blood circulation as a result of hormonal changes. The headaches are generally frequent and mild.
