For women who have been trying to conceive to those whose last thought is having a child, the early signs of pregnancy can be the most important signs they will ever look for. Because every woman's body is different, these early indicators of conception will vary. Regardless, it is imperative to recognize these signs and seek medical care as soon as possible; a healthy pregnancy depends on it.
Fatigue
Fatigue, or exhaustion, is one of the earliest signs of pregnancy, according to the Mayo Clinic. This is due to a number of factors, one of which is increased levels of the hormone progesterone. In the beginning, your body is also adjusting to accommodate the growing fetus; this causes metabolic changes that play a large role in your inability to stay awake.
Tender Breasts
You may notice your breasts begin to feel sore to the touch, almost as they would during your time of menstruation. If the cause is pregnancy, you will notice this about two weeks after conception, or when your period is delayed by one week.
Spotting and Cramping
According to the Mayo Clinic, implantation bleeding occurs when the egg attaches itself to the wall of the uterus. It varies from your regular period in color and flow. While your monthly cycle is red and heavy, implantation bleeding is typically pink and light, appearing here and there. It usually begins about eight to 10 days before your cycle is due, and may be accompanied by abdominal cramping, similar to those experienced during your menstrual cycle.
Food Cravings
The first trimester is when the most drastic hormonal changes take place in your body. These hormonal changes may cause you to crave certain foods. You may find yourself with a strong desire for one food in particular all the time. If this craving appears suddenly and is accompanied by other symptoms, you may consider this a symptom as well.
Morning Sickness
Just as increased levels of progesterone is the underlying cause of fatigue, increased levels of estrogen is the underlying cause of morning sickness. However the name should not fool you; morning sickness can occur morning, afternoon or night. It is one of the most common signs of pregnancy and may begin as soon as two weeks after conception has taken place, or one week after you have missed your first period. Some women suffer from nausea alone, while others suffer from nausea and vomiting.
Mood Swings
Mood swings are yet another result of the hormones blasting through your body when conception first takes place. They are most common in the first trimester and you can find yourself extremely emotional one minute, crying over a greeting card commercial, and then rage angry the next, screaming because your husband forgot to close the lid on the garbage can.
Missed Period
The most obvious sign may be a missed period. While there are other causes for this, such as stress, excessive changes in your weight and breast-feeding, a missed period, especially for women who are regular, is an accurate indication of conception.
