If you’re considering whether you could be pregnant, don’t worry—you’re certainly not the first person to wonder. Early signs of pregnancy can be light, easily mistaken for PMS, or just plain unexpected. Knowing what your body may be sending your way can make it easier to determine when it’s time to take a test or call your physician.
Let’s walk through the most common early signs of pregnancy, what causes them, and when to take action.
1. Missed Period – The Most Recognizable Sign
The most obvious clue is often a missed period. When you’re pregnant, your body stops ovulating and menstruating. If your cycle is usually regular and your period is late, that’s a strong reason to consider pregnancy, especially if it’s paired with other symptoms.
2. Nausea and Morning Sickness – Not Just in the Morning
Nausea, commonly called “morning sickness,” actually may strike at any hour of the day. It typically starts with week six of pregnancy but may begin sooner. Some individuals experience a mild queasiness, and others have outright vomiting. Increasing levels of hormones, especially hCG and progesterone, are mostly responsible. If nausea is severe or disrupts your daily routine, touch base with your healthcare provider.
3. Breast Changes – Tenderness, Swelling, and Darkening
Hormonal changes in early pregnancy may cause your breasts to be tender, swollen, or overly sensitive. You may also find that the area around your nipples, known as your areolas, has darkened or enlarged. These symptoms tend to appear within a few weeks of conception and might lessen as your body settles.
4. Fatigue – Feeling More Drained Than Usual
Severe fatigue is one of the earliest and most frequent symptoms. High progesterone levels and the added energy your body expends to sustain early growth can make you feel utterly drained. It’s not uncommon to feel more tired than normal, so don’t be afraid to take a nap when you need it.
5. Frequent Urination – Early and Often
If you notice yourself going to the bathroom more frequently than normal, it might be an early pregnancy sign. Pregnancy causes your body to pump more blood, and that means your kidneys are pumping more and creating more urine. This may occur even before a missed period.
6. Increased Sense of Smell and Food Sensitivities
Suddenly turned off by the aroma of your favorite foods? A more sensitive nose is a frequent pregnancy symptom. You may find that some odors are overpowering or even make you queasy. Food cravings and aversions may also appear early, most often prompted by hormone fluctuations.
7. Implantation Bleeding and Cramping – Easily Overlooked
Spotting or bleeding a week prior to your due date might be implantation bleeding. It occurs when an egg implants itself in the lining of the uterus, usually 6 to 12 days after conception. It’s pale brown or pink and significantly lighter than a regular period. Some mild cramping may occur as well, confused with PMS.
8. Bloating and Constipation – Digestive Changes Start Early
Bloated or backed up? You’re not dreaming. Slowing digestion is a common effect of elevated progesterone, which usually brings on bloating and constipation. You may be puffier than normal, even before your baby bump shows. Hydration and fiber are usually the solution.
9. Mood Swings and Headaches – The Hormonal Rollercoaster
Due to changing hormones, you may be feeling more emotional or cranky than normal. Tears may flow more readily, or trivial things may seem tremendous. Early pregnancy headaches can also be caused by hormones and heightened blood flow. If headaches are frequent or unbearable, consult your physician.
10. Acne or Skin Changes – Unprovoked Outbreaks
Not every woman oozes pregnancy “glow” immediately. Some women may get acne breakouts or more oily skin from early pregnancy hormones. It’s completely normal—even if it’s not the most welcome alteration.
11. Stuffy Nose or Slight Nosebleeds – Surprising but Frequent
Your body makes extra blood during pregnancy, and your nasal passages can get puffy because of it. This may result in a stuffy or runny nose, and sometimes even nosebleeds or postnasal drip. Although not an overt symptom, it’s more frequent than most people know.
12. When to Take a Pregnancy Test and Call Your Doctor
Most over-the-counter pregnancy tests can pick up on hCG around a week after a missed period. Taking the test too early can yield a false negative, so if you think you’re pregnant but receive a negative test, wait a few days and retake it. Blood tests at a physician’s office can detect pregnancy even sooner, around 6 to 8 days after ovulation. After receiving a positive test, make an appointment for a prenatal check-up. If symptoms continue but tests are negative, your physician can assist in investigating what else may be occurring.