If you have reason to suspect you may be pregnant, you’re likely paying very close attention to your body to see if you can detect any symptoms. The question is, what signs should you look for and how soon might they be noticeable? While every pregnancy is somewhat different, there are some common symptoms you can identify to detect a pregnancy as early as possible.
Missed Menstrual Period
This may seem obvious, but for many women, the absence of a monthly period is the first clear indication of pregnancy. How soon this will be noticeable depends on how consistent your periods typically are. Some women’s cycles reliably begin at the same interval, say 28 days. If this describes you, you may notice within a day or two of this timing being off, which could be within a week of conception. For women with less consistent cycles, a missed period may go unnoticed for weeks.
Smell Sensitivity
One often overlooked early sign of pregnancy is increased sensitivity to smells, called hyperosmia. This is due to hormonal changes in the body. Studies suggest that up to two-thirds of pregnant women become more sensitive to scents around them. This symptom has been reported as early as a few days following conception, and is typically strongest in the first trimester.
Breast Tenderness
The start of pregnancy ignites increases in estrogen and progesterone These can produce soreness and sensitivity in the breasts. In some cases, this can be noticeable within just a week or two of conception. In the days and weeks that follow, you will also likely notice your areolas darkening and/or increasing in size. You may also see tiny bumps on your areolas growing in size and number.
Spotting and Cramping
When the fertilized egg attaches to the lining of your uterus, it can produce abdominal cramps. It may also trigger light spotting for a day or two. This typically occurs within six to twelve days of conception. While some women mistake this for their monthly period, it’s really implantation bleeding, and it’s a clear sign that it’s time for a pregnancy test.
Other Symptoms
Additional pregnancy symptoms typically develop in the weeks that follow. You may notice you have difficulty breathing, get tired more easily, or need to go to the bathroom more often. You may also experience muscle soreness, lack of balance, and of course, the classic “morning sickness.” These symptoms are all common within the first three months of pregnancy. Most ease following the first trimester.
Get a Pregnancy Test to Know for Sure
Identifying a pregnancy as early as possible is critical for ensuring you and your baby get the care you need. Proper prenatal care, including doctor visits and appropriate diet and lifestyle choices, dramatically increases your likelihood of a healthy pregnancy. While home pregnancy tests can be a useful first step, the only way to know for sure is with a medical pregnancy test followed by a pregnancy confirmation ultrasound.
At Sira in Gainesville, we offer free medical pregnancy testing and free pregnancy confirmation ultrasounds for all women, with no insurance required. Results are confidential and all of our services are provided absolutely free of charge.To schedule your free appointment, contact Sira today at 352-377-4947.