Pregnancy brings a variety of changes to your body, and while every pregnancy is unique, certain symptoms are commonly experienced by many women.
Understanding these symptoms can help you recognize the early signs of pregnancy. However, it’s important to know that other health conditions can mimic the symptoms of early pregnancy, which is why it’s critical to take a pregnancy test if you think you might be pregnant. At Her Hope Pregnancy Center, we offer free pregnancy testing and a safe space to talk.
1. Missed Period
One of the earliest and most recognizable signs of pregnancy is a missed period. If your menstrual cycle is regular and your period doesn’t arrive as expected, it may be time to take a pregnancy test.
2. Morning Sickness
Often starting around the 4th to 6th week of pregnancy, nausea with/without vomiting—commonly known as morning sickness—can happen at any time of day. Hormonal changes, particularly increased levels of hCG and estrogen, are believed to trigger this symptom.
3. Fatigue
Feeling unusually tired is another common early symptom of pregnancy. Your body is working harder to support the developing baby, and increased levels of progesterone can make you feel sleepy and drained.
4. Breast Tenderness and Changes
Hormonal shifts can make your breasts feel sore, tender, or swollen. Some women also notice their breasts feeling fuller or heavier as their body prepares for breastfeeding.
5. Frequent Urination
Pregnancy increases blood flow to your kidneys, leading to more frequent trips to the bathroom. This symptom may begin as early as six weeks into pregnancy and often continues as your pregnancy develops.
6. Mood Swings
Fluctuating hormone levels can cause mood swings, making you feel more emotional or irritable than usual. This is completely normal during pregnancy. If you feel like you’re riding an emotional rollercoaster, you might be pregnant.
7. Food Cravings or Aversions
Sudden cravings for certain foods—or a strong aversion to others—are common in pregnancy. These changes are often linked to hormonal changes and vary from woman to woman.
We’re Here for You
If you’re experiencing any of these symptoms and suspect you may be pregnant, it’s time to take a pregnancy test. At Her Hope Pregnancy Center, we offer these tests for free—and we also provide a safe space to talk and learn more about your options.
You’re not alone in this. We’re here for you. Contact us today to learn about all the ways we’re here to help.