You experience many symptoms when you first miss your period as the result of pregnancy. Signs of pregnancy affect more than just your body -- they trigger changes in your behavior and emotional well-being, too. Symptoms range from subtle to glaringly obvious and can last anywhere from a few days to several months into your pregnancy.
Body Changes
Vaginal bleeding and cramping often occur during the early days and weeks of pregnancy as the embryo implants itself into the wall of your uterus. The increase in hormone levels causes the breasts to feel sore and sensitive. Hormone fluctuations can also trigger pain in the lower back and frequent headaches. You will also notice more frequent urination and bloating in your abdominal area, even though your uterus has not yet grown bigger.
Nausea and Aversions
Levels of the hormones progesterone and estrogen rise during the early weeks of pregnancy and cause your stomach to empty more slowly than usual, which results in nausea. This hormonal fluctuation also heightens your sense of smell. Many odors, such as the aroma of certain foods, cigarette smoke and perfumes, often trigger nausea and your gag reflex. It is not uncommon to find that your favorite foods suddenly repulse you.
Fatigue
The sudden rise in progesterone levels can also trigger sleepiness and fatigue. Further, pregnancy lowers your blood pressure, causes your body to produce more blood and triggers fluctuations in your blood sugar levels, which contributes to fatigue. Sleep interruption, from feeling sick, having to urinate more often or experiencing body aches during the night, can also leaves you feeling sleepy and sluggish.
Mood Changes
The increases and fluctuations of hormone levels in your body during the early days and weeks of pregnancy also alter your mood. These hormonal changes often trigger mood swings, depression, sadness, the feeling of hopelessness, crying spells, manic happiness, elation and fear of your upcoming parenting responsibilities. Talk to your doctor immediately if you are unable to cope with these mood changes or you consider harming yourself in any way.
