Symptoms of pregnancy can vary for every woman and even from her first pregnancy to her last. Two of the earliest, recognizable signs of pregnancy are a missed period and a positive pregnancy test. Other symptoms may occur within a few weeks, or not for many months. It is common for women to mistake the earliest signs of pregnancy as some other ailment, including an upcoming menstrual period or even the flu. Six symptoms of pregnancy occur sometime after the second week of pregnancy and usually improve temporarily by the end of the first trimester, explains BabyCenter.com.
Breast Changes
BabyCenter.com explains that breast sensitivity and soreness are some of the earliest signs of pregnancy. This is due to increasing hormone levels from the pregnancy. Some women report that this is similar to the feelings they experience before a menstrual period. It is not uncommon for the breasts to swell during the first trimester and maintain their size until lactation has ended. The areolas, tissue surrounding the nipple, become darkened during pregnancy and will continue until lactation has ended, explains the American Pregnancy Association.
Tiredness
Pregnancy and fatigue go hand in hand. Tiredness can set in soon after conception as a result of increase progesterone in the body. Energy levels are restored during the second trimester but as the baby continues to grow and the woman gets more uncomfortable, she will experience fatigue again.
Bleeding and Cramping
About 10 to 14 days after a woman's egg is fertilized with sperm the embryo implants (attaches) into the uterine wall explains the Mayo Clinic. This can cause mild spotting and cramping, much like that experienced during a period but considerably less intense. A woman may attribute these symptoms as an upcoming period. The spotting and cramping may occur slightly earlier than an expected period.
Nausea
Nausea, with or without vomiting, can occur within the first few weeks of pregnancy and continue throughout the first trimester. The pregnant woman's sense of smell is more sensitive, leading to some sensitivities. She may find herself wanting to vomit at the sight, smell or taste of certain foods. Persistent vomiting should be reported to a doctor as it may require treatment to ensure the baby is getting adequate nutrition.
Frequent Urination
As early as six to eight weeks after conception a woman may begin making more trips to the bathroom than usual. This annoyance continues throughout pregnancy. It is often worsened due to the weight of the baby on the bladder.
Food Cravings/Aversions
The American Pregnancy Association explains that unusual food cravings can occur early in pregnancy and continue until the baby is delivered. Pregnancy can cause a woman to have a strong aversion to certain foods as well. This can be due to a number of things like texture, taste and smell. It is not unusual for a woman to detest things she enjoyed prior to pregnancy.
