In the early days of pregnancy, there are a few signs that can indicate to a woman that a baby is on the way. The most obvious of these is the missed period, but there are others that can hint of conception even before that occurs.
Breast Changes
For some women, breast changes are the first signs that they are pregnant. Tenderness and swelling can occur as soon as a week after conception and will generally last the entire pregnancy. Another noticeable change is a darkening of the areola and nipples. This darkening is a result of increased estrogen levels produced as the embryo attaches to the uterine lining.
Basal Body Temperature
For women who chart their cycles using basal body temperature, pregnancy can be suspected if the basal body temperature stays high after ovulation according to Toni Weschler in "Taking Charge of Your Fertility." However, this cannot be relied upon if you are taking fertility medications such as Clomid or Provera because these can raise the basal body temperature artificially.
Fatigue
Overwhelming fatigue is often the first symptom for many women. This can be noticeable even just a few days after conception as the body begins shifting nutrients and energy to the developing embryo and placenta.
Other Signs after a Missed Period
Some of the classic pregnancy signs will become more obvious and stronger in the days and weeks following a missed period, when the placenta's blood supply is firmly established and hormone levels are at higher levels. These early signs include nausea, vomiting, food aversions, frequent urination and food cravings. Occasionally, a woman may also experience a light spotting of brown blood around the time of her expected period. This is called implantation bleeding and occurs as the embryo burrows into the rich lining of the uterus.
Of course, every woman is different and each will experience signs and symptoms unique to her pregnancy.
References
- Taking Charge of Your Fertility; Toni Weschler, MPH; 2006
- Pregnancy Symptoms-Early Signs of Pregnancy; "American Pregnancy Association"; May 2005
