For some women, the earliest symptoms of pregnancy appear in the first few weeks after conception. But even before you miss a period, you may suspect or hope that you’re pregnant.
Many early pregnancy symptoms can appear similar to routine pre-menstrual discomforts.
Nausea with or without vomiting
Morning sickness, which can strike at any time of the day or night, is one of the classic symptoms of pregnancy.
For some women, the queasiness begins as early as two weeks after conception.
Nausea seems to stem at least in part from rapidly rising levels of estrogen, which causes the stomach to empty more slowly.
Tender, swollen breasts
Your breasts may provide one of the first symptoms of pregnancy.
As early as two weeks after conception, hormonal changes may make your breasts tender, tingly or sore. Or your breasts may feel fuller and heavier.
Fatigue
Fatigue and tiredness also rank high among early symptoms of pregnancy. During early pregnancy, levels of the hormone progesterone soar.
In high enough doses, progesterone can put you to sleep. At the same time, lower blood sugar levels, lower blood pressure, and increased blood production may team up to sap your energy during your pregnancy.
Headaches
Early in pregnancy, increased blood circulation caused by hormonal changes may trigger frequent, mild headaches.
Constipation
Constipation is another common early symptom of pregnancy. An increase in progesterone causes food to pass more slowly through the intestines, which can lead to constipation.
Mood swings
The flood of hormones in your body in early pregnancy can make you unusually emotional and weepy. Mood swings also are common, especially in the first trimester.
