At three weeks into your pregnancy, you are still one week away from the due date of your period, and only a few pregnancy signs and symptoms may be present. Not all women will experience the same symptoms at the same time, and signs of pregnancy may also vary from a previous pregnancy. If you are experiencing signs and symptoms of pregnancy and miss your period, it is time to buy a home pregnancy test.
Implantation Bleeding and Mild Cramping
Sometimes a small amount of spotting or vaginal bleeding is one of the first symptoms of pregnancy, states the Mayo Clinic. This spotting or bleeding may be accompanied by some mild uterine cramping. This is known as implantation bleeding, which occurs when the fertilized egg attaches to the wall of the uterus. This bleeding is usually lighter in color and shorter in duration than your menstrual period. It may occur as early as three weeks into your pregnancy. Not all women will experience implantation bleeding.
Breast Tenderness
According to the American Pregnancy Association, swollen or tender breasts are a pregnancy symptom that may begin as early as one to two weeks after conception. Your breasts may feel sore and tender, which may feel similar to the way they feel prior to your menstrual period. You may also notice changes in your areola and breast tissue. The areola may appear darker in color and larger in size, while the appearance of blue veins on your breasts may be present.
Fatigue
You may begin to experience fatigue as early as one to two weeks into your pregnancy. A feeling of being more tired or sleepier than usual may be a sign that your body is sending its extra energy to your uterus. Be sure to get enough rest during this time. Ensuring that you sleep at least eight hours nightly and taking a daily nap may help you to feel more refreshed throughout the day.
Nausea and Vomiting
Some women may experience nausea and vomiting as early as three weeks into their pregnancy. These symptoms are thought to be caused by the increased estrogen in your body produced from the pregnancy. Estrogen slows the gastrointestinal system and makes one more prone to nausea and vomiting. Contact your physician if you experience severe vomiting. You may be at risk for becoming dehydrated. He may be able to prescribe you medication to help alleviate vomiting.
Headache
Headache is a common early sign of pregnancy. This may occur as your body is adjusting to the heightened level of hormones, such as estrogen and progesterone. If your headache becomes severe, you may treat it with regular strength acetaminophen, which is considered safe to use during pregnancy.
