Maybe you have been feeling sick to your stomach the last few days. Or perhaps you have been extremely tired, even though you are normally energetic. And maybe you have noticed some spotting before your period is due to arrive. These are all signs your body sends you, alerting you that fertilization has taken place; these are all early signs of pregnancy.
Nausea/Morning Sickness
The Mayo Clinic describes this as one of the classic symptoms of pregnancy. The nausea may or may not be accompanied by vomiting and can occur at any time of the day or night. In some cases, it lasts all through the day.
The American Pregnancy Association states that this symptom usually begins two to eight weeks after conception, and while some women never experience it, some women suffer from it throughout most of their pregnancy. To help ease this symptom, eat small, frequent meals through the day. It may also help to snack on saltine crackers and milk, as they may help settle your stomach.
Fatigue
Describing this symptom as fatigue may be an understatement. For some women, it appears in the form of sheer exhaustion. The Mayo Clinic explains that fatigue occurs because of a rapid increase of the hormone progesterone. Responsible for many things, progesterone is best known for decreasing energy levels in the first trimester.
Even the smallest of tasks, such as making a trip to the grocery store, can leave a woman feeling completely zapped of energy. To combat this symptom, take frequent naps of 15 to 30 minutes through the day. This should be enough time to rejuvenate your body and increase your energy levels, helping you get through the remainder of your day.
Spotting
The American Pregnancy Association states that spotting, referred to medically as implantation bleeding, is one of the earliest signs of pregnancy a woman can experience. This occurs when the fertilized egg attaches itself to the wall of the uterus.
When experienced, spotting usually occurs within six to 12 days after conception and is a light-pink or red color. It will appear prior to your normal period and has a tendency to come and go. It does not last long and is sometimes accompanied by slight cramping. For some, this can be a more subtle symptom, as it is one that does not happen with everyone.
Tender Breasts
Breasts may be tender or swollen as early as two weeks after conception, according to the Mayo Clinic. This symptom may also be most noticeable when you are trying to sleep at night, during exercise or while getting dressed.
This symptom occurs as a result of your body preparing to breastfeed. To accomplish this, your hormone levels increase. You may also notice that your nipples are sore and begin to darken as well. It is a natural response, even if you do not plan to breastfeed your baby.
