But if you hope that you're expecting, even before you miss a period, learn about symptoms that could indicate that you are pregnant. These early clues may begin in the first few weeks after conception.
The following are common early signs of pregnancy.
1. Missed period
The most obvious early symptom of pregnancy is when you've missed your period. Obstetrician and Gynaecologist Dr Vidya Kulkarni says, "When you become pregnant, you will miss your period."
Some women have implantation bleeding about 7-10 days after conception. During this time the embryo implants itself into the uterine wall and many women experience spotting as well as some cramps.
Implantation bleeding can be pink, red or brown
Time of appearance - If you have a 28-day cycle, you would normally ovulate around day 14.
That means if you have had sexual contact around this time, and you don't get your period on time, it could indicate pregnancy. You will be menses-free throughout pregnancy.
Other causes - Stress, illness, weight fluctuations, hormonal problems, breastfeeding.
2. High Basal Body Temperature
If you have been keeping a record of your body temperature and mucus observations, your record provides you with an excellent confirmation of pregnancy.
Most women ovulate 14 days before their next period. And on days after ovulation, your body temperature is high.
So, if your temperature stays elevated for 18 days after ovulation, there is a 99 per cent chance that you are pregnant.
Leina D'souza, Natural Family Planning teacher says, "During the first half of your cycle, oestrogen dominates."
During the second half of your cycle (once ovulation has occurred), there is a surge in progesterone. Therefore, in the first half of the month, your temperature will be lower than it is in the second half of the month, after ovulation.
Your BBT will reach its lowest point at ovulation and then rise immediately and dramatically as soon as ovulation occurs
Time of appearance - Your BBT will stay elevated during the entire pregnancy.
Other causes - None
3. Tender breasts and darkening of the areola
This may happen because your breasts begin to enlarge to get ready for breastfeeding.
Specifically, breast tenderness is caused by the increase in hormone levels that happens during pregnancy.
To prepare for the baby, your body increases its levels of oestrogen and progesterone.
This increase in hormones causes blood to rush to your breasts, making them sensitive to touch.
Time of appearance - 1 - 2 weeks after conception
Other causes - Impending menstruation, hormonal imbalances.
| Also Read: Long Distance Breastfeeding? |
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