Initial Signs of Pregnancy

The signs of pregnancy can start as early as a week following conception. While not all women will experience all signs of pregnancy, most women will experience at least one of these early signs of pregnancy. In order to notice some of these signs of pregnancy, you will have to pay close attention to your body and your menstrual cycle.

Elevated Temperature

For a woman who keeps track of her basal body temperature, the first sign of pregnancy is usually a slightly elevated temperature. Around the time of ovulation, a woman's temperature rises slightly. If conception doesn't occur, it will return back to normal after ovulation; however, if she is pregnant, it will remain elevated throughout the pregnancy.

Missed Period

Approximately two weeks after conception, a woman will notice that she doesn't start her period on time. However, she may notice some brown or pink spotting around that time, which is known as implantation bleeding. This spotting occurs when the embryo attaches to the uterus. It may be accompanied by some mild cramping.

Aches

Breast tenderness, headaches and backaches are common in the beginning of pregnancy. These aches are a result of increased blood flow and hormonal changes. In addition to feeling tender, you may notice that your breasts feel fuller than normal, and your areolas may be darker than normal.

Fatigue

Fatigue is a sign of pregnancy that can start as early as one week following conception. This fatigue differs from normal fatigue because it won't abate with extra rest or extra sleep.

Appetite

You may notice a slight increase in the number of times you eat each day in the beginning of your pregnancy. You may experience constipation early in your pregnancy, which may remain throughout the pregnancy. You may have food cravings and aversions throughout your pregnancy. Approximately six to eight weeks following conception, you may begin to notice that you are nauseated, and you may begin to vomit. This is called morning sickness, which usually abates by the end of the first trimester.