According to the American Pregnancy Association, a missed menstrual cycle is usually the earliest sign of pregnancy in most sexually active women. As different as a woman's body is from another woman's body, so are the signs and symptoms of pregnancy. The frequency and intensity of symptoms--and if any are experienced--are factors that influence pregnancy signs.
Nausea With or Without Vomiting
Rapidly increasing levels of estrogen in pregnancy can delay gastric emptying, contributing to the classic symptom of nausea, according to the Mayo Clinic. This symptom can begin as early as two weeks after conception. Although it's called "morning sickness," nausea with or without vomiting can occur at any time of the day. Pregnant women may have an enhanced sense of smell, explaining why certain odors and foods cause queasiness. Vomiting can occur without explanation. According to the American Pregnancy Association, some women even feel nauseous throughout the entire pregnancy.
Swollen or Tender Breasts
Breast variations may provide one of the earliest signs of pregnancy. Hormonal changes occurring with pregnancy may cause breasts to feel tender, tingly or sore. The nipples may feel sensitive and change to a darker color as well. Fullness of breasts can be felt and is more apparent during movement. This sign of pregnancy may appear one to two weeks after conception.
Fatigue
According to the Mayo Clinic, elevated levels of progesterone may contribute to this early sign of pregnancy. Performing daily activities that were once easy may cause fatigue. Frequent resting is often required to help alleviate some of the exhaustion. There may be a sensation of lightheadedness. The surge in blood circulation, lessening of blood pressure and lower-than-normal blood sugar levels may increase the weariness that's felt in early pregnancy. This sign may begin a week after conception.
Implantation Bleeding
Spotting or light vaginal bleeding can also be considered an early sign of pregnancy. This happens when the fertilized egg implants itself in the lining of the uterus. The bleeding that occurs with implantation bleeding is lighter in color and not as heavy in amount or in duration as a regular menstrual period. You may also feel slight, menstrual-like cramping in the abdominal area. This typically occurs 10 to 14 days after conception. When the earliest signs of pregnancy are present, one way to verify conception is a home pregnancy test.
