The first sure indication of pregnancy a woman may have is the "pregnant" indication from a home pregnancy test. But there are lots of other small signs that you might be pregnant that show up in the first month or so of your pregnancy. Women with regular menstrual periods may begin to suspect they're pregnant right away if their period doesn't show up as expected, but for those with less regular cycles, or who may not have been paying close attention, other symptoms may be the first clue that it's time to see the doctor to confirm a pregnancy.
Menstrual Bleeding, or Lack Thereof
One of the earliest signs that you are pregnant is an abnormal menstrual cycle. Usually this means that your menstrual flow doesn't happen at all, or doesn't happen when it normally would. According to the American Pregnancy Association some women have very light bleeding during pregnancy, and in some cases implantation bleeding may be mistaken for a menstrual cycle. Implantation bleeding (if it happens) usually takes place within less than a week of when your menstrual cycle would have been expected, and may be accompanied by menstrual-like cramping and an elevated basal body temperature.
Early Symptoms
Other early symptoms of pregnancy that may show up, sometimes within just a couple weeks of conception (shortly after you might notice you've missed your period) include swollen or tender breasts, headache, fatigue or extreme tiredness, and nausea---sometimes called morning sickness, although it can happen at any point throughout the day. The nausea may or may not be accompanied by vomiting. These symptoms, if they manifest at all, may last for a short time or may continue throughout the pregnancy.
Other Symptoms
Other symptoms that may manifest later in pregnancy, although still within the first trimester, are darkening areolas (the skin around your nipples), strange food cravings or aversions, constipation, mood swings, faintness or dizziness and a frequent urge to urinate. All of these symptoms, and those listed above, when considered individually, can also signify other conditions besides pregnancy. Once you suspect you may be pregnant, you should visit a doctor so that she can help you determine whether you're pregnant or not, and what actions should be taken to ensure your health, and that of your baby, if you are.
