Pregnancy Symptoms

Am I pregnant? For some women this question brings thoughts of joy and for some feelings of uncertainty. Short of actually visiting your doctor and getting a blood test done, there is no real way to telling for sure if you are pregnant, but there are certain pregnancy symptoms that you can be on the look out for.

Early Pregnancy Symptoms

• Missed period or a period with less bleeding than normal
  
  
• Backaches
  
  
• Constipation
  This symptom is caused by hormone changes, and the growing uterus pressing against the bowel.
  
  
• Darkening of areola (breast nipple)
  This can be one of the first symptoms which can appear as early as one week after conception and then throughout pregnancy.
  
  
• Excessive salivation
  
  
• Exhaustion or feeling sleepy
  Can occur one to six weeks after conception and last your entire pregnancy.
  
  
• Food cravings
  
  
• Frequent urination
  You may see this symptom six to eight weeks after conception and it will be with you for your entire pregnancy. This is caused by hormone changes and growing pressure on the bladder.
  
  
• Headaches
  
  
• Increased sense of smell
  
  
• Lower abdominal cramps
  
  
• Nausea and vomiting
  This symptom usually shows up two to ten weeks after conception. The degree in which you feel sick varies from none to full fledged vomiting. The terminology for this nausea is "morning sickness" by can happen at any time of the day. Hormone changes in your body cause this symptom.
  
  
• Tender or swollen breasts
  This symptom is one that can appear rather quickly after fertilization - one to two weeks after conception and will most likely be with you your entire pregnancy.
  
  

Home pregnancy tests are very reliable and most can show results as early as 10 to 14 days after fertilization.

Even if you have a postitive pregnancy test and have some or all of these pregnancy symptoms, you will need to visit your health care provider and get a blood test done to get the absolute confirmation of your pregnancy.

If you have these pregnancy symptoms and you believe that you are pregnant, be sure to take care of your health. Avoid caffeine, alcohol, cigarettes, and drugs. If you are taking prescription or over the counter medication, be sure to check with your doctor to make sure they are safe to take while pregnant. Start taking folic acid to help ensure the health of your unborn child.

Enjoy your journey, your life will never be the same!