Signs of Pregnancy
SIGNS OF PREGNANCY
There are a number of different signs and symptoms of pregnancy. The first thing that most women will notice is that their period is late/missing; this may be as early as 2 weeks from when you conceived. However if you have irregular periods you may not be aware that you have actually missed a period. Occasionally some women will experience a small amount of bleeding around the time when they would have expected a period even although they are pregnant; this type of bleeding may be due to implantation of the fertilised egg. It is important to establish if you are pregnant as early as possible.
Other signs of pregnancy:
- Breast changes: your breasts may become larger and feel tender, just as they might do before your period. They may also tingle. The veins may be more visible, and the nipples may darken and stand out.
- Tiredness
- Sickness: Commonly known as morning sickness, but it can happen at any time of the day.
- Going to the toilet more often
- Being constipated.
- Feeling emotional
- You may notice increased vaginal discharge without any soreness or irritation.
Most women will be aware of some or all of these early signs in the first eight weeks of pregnancy. Later signs of pregnancy such as change in body shape/image are not usually apparent until after 12 weeks in pregnancy.
Having your pregnancy confirmed
If you suspect you are pregnant you should do a pregnancy test as soon as possible (Link to pregnancy test section)
Finding out that you are pregnant can result in a variety of different emotions; you may feel happy and excited, or shocked, confused and upset. These emotions may even alter at different times for individuals. Even if you've been trying to get pregnant, your feelings may take you by surprise. Some of these feelings may be caused by changes in your hormone levels, which can make you feel more emotional.
For more information and support in relation to sexual health issues, please contact or make an appointment with one of our local services