Know the Earliest Pregnancy Signs

During the first two weeks of pregnancy, it can be difficult to determine whether you're pregnant. Signs may be subtle. However, if you notice any unusual changes, you may be pregnant. Changes, like changes in your appetite, can indicate pregnancy. You may also notice physical changes like aches, pains, and nausea. If you suspect you are pregnant, take a home pregnancy test and see a doctor.

Steps

Noticing Changes in Mood and Energy

1. Notice your overall energy level. Fatigue is a common early sign of pregnancy. Even when you have not changed your routine or sleep schedule, you may feel tired throughout the day. Unexplained fatigue can be an early sign of pregnancy.
2. Take note of any changes in tastes. You may not experience food cravings right away. However, early on in pregnancy you may suddenly develop an aversion to certain foods. You may dislike the smell of a food or drink you once enjoyed or did not mind.
   • For example, you may wake up one morning and be nauseated by the smell of your morning coffee brewing.
3. Think about whether you've been moody. Pregnancy hormones can cause changes in mood early on. You may notice you get angry or frustrated more easily or are very emotional. You may cry over sad commercials or television shows more easily.
   • These mood swings may be similar to what you experience just before your menstrual cycle.

Paying Attention to Physical Changes

1. Keep track of your menstrual cycle. A missed period is usually the first sign of pregnancy. You should track your menstrual cycle to know roughly when to expect your monthly period. If you do not experience your period within this time frame, this can be an early sign you're pregnant.
2. Pay attention to unusual nausea. About a quarter of pregnant women experience nausea as the first sign of pregnancy. You may feel sick to your stomach at certain times of the day. Strange smells may easily trigger feelings of nausea and sickness.
3. Note unusual bleeding or spotting. Implantation bleeding sometimes occurs just after pregnancy, possibly due to a sperm attaching to an egg. Some women may mistake this for a very light period, but it can be a sign of pregnancy if you are also experiencing other symptoms.
   • Implantation bleeding or spotting is much lighter than your regular period. You may only notice it when you wipe.
   • The color also may differ from a regular period. It may be more pink or brown-colored than usual.
4. Evaluate if you have unusual aches and pains. Pregnancy can cause unexpected physical discomfort. Usually, this takes the form of mild uterine cramping as well as tender, sore breasts.
   • Like many symptoms of pregnancy, these are often similar to pains you may experience just before your period.
5. Look for changes in urination habits. During pregnancy, your kidneys produce extra fluid due to increased levels of blood in your body. Many women notice increased urination during pregnancy. If you find yourself using the bathroom more often, this could be an early sign that you are pregnant.

Seeking Medical Evaluation

1. Take a home pregnancy test. If you suspect you are pregnant, pick up a home pregnancy test at a drug store. Follow the directions on the package and take the test at home. Usually, you pee on the stick or gather your urine in a cup and dip the stick in the test.
   • Most pregnancies tests can be taken a few days after your missed period. However, there are some tests on the market designed for early detection you can try. Refer to the package's instructions for precise directions on when to take the test.
   • Tests are more accurate after your missed period. If you suspect you are pregnant before missing your period, go to the doctor instead of taking an at home test.
2. Make an appointment with your healthcare provider. If you suspect you are pregnant, or have a positive pregnancy test, make an appointment with your doctor.
   • During your first visit, your doctor will run tests to confirm your pregnancy. A doctor may perform a urine test in the office or they may order blood work.
   • Your doctor will also ask you about your medical history, past pregnancies, your general lifestyle, and any medications you're currently taking.
   • Your doctor will perform a basic physical exam to make sure you're in good health.
3. Seek support. If you are pregnant, it can be an emotional experience. If you're waiting on the results of a test can be stressful, so talk to friends, family members, and the other parent about your emotions. You can also talk to a therapist if you have one.

Tips

• Many of the early pregnancy symptoms are also premenstrual symptoms. You should begin to know your own body rhythms after tracking and charting for a few months.

Warnings

• A very small percentage of women continue menstruating throughout the course of their pregnancy; having your period does not mean that you're not pregnant in all cases. You should take a test if you suspect you are pregnant.

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Sources and Citations

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• Tell Implantation Symptoms from PMS Symptoms
• Raise the Chances of Having a Boy
• Increase Fertility in Men
• Determine if You Are Pregnant

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