Our bodies are constantly in flux — responding to hormonal changes, turning a year older, or even just too much ice cream after last night’s dinner. It can be difficult to know what’s causing our aches and pains, and if you’re sexually active you may be worrying if these changes are actually symptoms of pregnancy.
We get it — navigating all of the ebbs and flows of your body can feel overwhelming. Thankfully, you’re not alone. Pathways Clinic is here to help. If you think you may be pregnant, be on the lookout for these early pregnancy symptoms:
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A Missed Period
Often one of the first symptoms a woman may notice is a missed menstrual period. While a missed or delayed period might be related to other conditions or lifestyle changes, such as a shift in your diet or sleep schedule, it may also be a sign that you’re pregnant.
If you’re experiencing light bleeding, this may not be a period, but rather what’s called implantation bleeding, which occurs when the fertilized egg implants in the uterus.
2. Nausea
As the body produces high levels of hormones to support the fetus, some women experience pregnancy-related nausea. What’s often called “morning sickness” can actually occur throughout the day. Thankfully this disruptive symptom typically goes away in the second trimester of pregnancy.
3. Changes in Nipples and Breasts
Have you noticed a change in the texture or color of your nipples? Are your breasts tender or in pain? Changes in the breasts or nipples may be an early pregnancy symptom as the body prepares for the future responsibility of feeding a child.
4. Fatigue
Early pregnancy requires an increase in the level of the hormone called progesterone. The body’s new job of supporting a pregnancy requires some intense overtime work, leading to new levels of fatigue and exhaustion.
6. Cravings and Heightened Senses
Unexplained cravings and heightened senses may be early pregnancy symptoms. As significant hormonal shifts occur, women often experience new aversions to tastes and smells, as well as a hankering for strange foods (think ice cream with pickles) or cravings like fresh lemonade.
Are you experiencing any of the above symptoms? It may be time for a pregnancy test!
The first step in determining if you’re pregnant is to receive free lab-quality pregnancy testing through your local pregnancy clinic like Pathways Clinic.
After you receive a positive test, we will provide a free ultrasound scan to confirm your pregnancy’s age, location, and viability, and give you a safe space to explore your options and ask any questions you may have.
Pathways Clinic is here to help — Schedule your free appointment today!