Maybe you have already taken a test or it is just too early for that. Of course, you cannot wait to feel the first signs.
The first pregnancy symptoms
Changes in the Menstrual Cycle
One of the most obvious signs is a change in your menstrual cycle. If you have a regular cycle and your period is late, this can of course indicate pregnancy. You may also have light bleeding or spotting, known as implantation bleeding, around the time you would normally have your period. It can then be confusing whether this bleeding is a menstrual period or implantation bleeding. Implantation bleeding often lasts for a shorter period and is less heavy than a menstrual period.
Sensitive Breasts
Your breasts may feel more sensitive and fuller. You may notice that your breasts are sore or that your nipples are more sensitive. These changes are caused by hormonal changes in the body.
Fatigue
In the first weeks of pregnancy, a tremendous amount of energy is released in the body to support the fertilization and cell division of the embryo as best as possible. This is often accompanied by fatigue. Even when you get enough sleep, this fatigue can persist.
Nausea and Vomiting
The notorious morning sickness can strike at any time. Not all women experience this, but it is a common symptom. This nausea is caused by the rising HCG levels, among other things. Due to the shift in hormones, you may also react more strongly to smells and tastes. Eat immediately when you wake up to counteract this morning sickness as much as possible. Eat small amounts, drink plenty of water, and take the right nutritional supplements to ensure that your nausea does not get worse. In addition, you may get fewer nutrients due to nausea and vomiting. That is why it is important to supplement your diet properly with the right supplements. Click here for the right nutritional supplements to support you during your first trimester.
Changes in Taste and Smell
You may suddenly dislike certain foods or smells that were not a problem before. On the other hand, you may also develop new cravings. The coffee you normally had in the morning may suddenly become unappealing. This can also be one of the first signs of pregnancy.
Frequent Urination
If you notice that you need to use the toilet more often than usual, this can be an early sign of pregnancy. Your uterus changes immediately after the fertilized egg implants. Due to this change and growth, it can put pressure on the bladder, causing you to need to use the toilet more often.
Emotional Changes
Hormonal changes have a major impact on your emotions. Progesterone, for example, is an important hormone for establishing and maintaining your pregnancy. This hormone also has a major impact on your mental well-being. You may be more emotional than usual, tearful, or extremely happy. Try to relax as much as possible, take time to rest, and accept the changes in your body.
Changes in Basal Body Temperature
You can monitor your basal body temperature to see when you ovulate and whether you are pregnant. A sustained increase in basal body temperature after ovulation can indicate pregnancy.
Abdominal Cramps and Pain
You may experience mild abdominal cramps, similar to menstrual cramps. This is often completely harmless. Due to the implantation of the egg in the uterine wall and the growing uterus, the uterus may begin to contract. This causes these abdominal cramps.
Constipation or Diarrhea
Changes in digestion are another common sign. Pregnancy hormones slow down your bowels, which can cause constipation and difficulty passing stool.
Please note! Some women experience many of these signs in the first weeks of pregnancy, while others experience no changes in their bodies. In both cases, the pregnancy can proceed smoothly. You may also experience severe nausea and fatigue right away, while these symptoms may suddenly disappear. This is also often completely normal. What you experienced during your first pregnancy may certainly not be the same during your next pregnancy. Every woman and every pregnancy is unique! So do not feel insecure whether you experience symptoms or not.
Have you had a positive test? Then contact a midwife in your area so you can schedule your first appointment!
Do you have questions about your pregnancy? Feel free to contact me at jacqueline@mompwdr.com.
With love,
Jacqueline Steenbeek
Midwife, Hormone Therapist, Owner of MOM PWDR® & Baby Glimpse, Mother of 3 beautiful children
