The first signs of pregnancy commonly include a missed period, fatigue, tender or swollen breasts, nausea or morning sickness, and frequent urination. Other early symptoms may involve vaginal spotting (implantation bleeding), mood swings, food cravings or aversions, headaches, and bloating. These symptoms typically appear within the first few weeks after conception but can vary for each individual. Some signs like a missed period are considered the most reliable early indicators, but others such as fatigue and nausea might occur even before a missed period.
Common Early Pregnancy Signs
- Missed period or lighter spotting (implantation bleeding)
- Fatigue and tiredness due to hormonal changes
- Breast tenderness, swelling, and changes in nipple appearance
- Nausea and vomiting, often called morning sickness (can occur any time)
- Frequent urination caused by increased kidney function
- Mood swings from hormonal fluctuations
- Food cravings or aversions and altered taste sensations
- Headaches and dizziness linked to hormonal changes and circulation
These signs result from hormonal shifts that prepare the body for pregnancy and support fetal development. While these symptoms strongly suggest pregnancy, a pregnancy test is necessary for confirmation, as similar symptoms can have other causes.
