When you’re pregnant, it’s natural to be curious about the changes that your body is going through and what to look out for. Knowing the signs of pregnancy can help you take extra care of yourself and ensure that you and your baby are healthy. Here are some common symptoms of pregnancy to watch out for.
Nausea and Morning Sickness: One of the earliest symptoms of pregnancy is feeling nauseous and having morning sickness. This can start as early as two weeks after conception and tends to peak at 8-10 weeks. If you’re feeling sick all day and not just in the mornings, this could be an indication of pregnancy.
Fatigue: Feeling overwhelmingly tired is another common symptom of pregnancy. This is due to your body producing extra hormones, including progesterone and hCG, which can cause fatigue. Take naps or find other ways to rest during the daytime if you feel tired.
Frequent Urination: Pregnant women tend to have to go to the bathroom more often because their uterus is growing and putting pressure on their bladder. Frequent urination can also be a sign of urinary tract infections, which pregnant women are more prone to due to their weakened immune systems.
Breast Changes: Another common sign of pregnancy is tenderness and swelling of the breasts. Your breasts may become larger than normal and feel heavy and uncomfortable. You may also notice that your nipples are darker or enlarged. These are all normal changes that happen during pregnancy.
Food Cravings: During pregnancy, you may experience strange food cravings or food aversions. You may find yourself wanting to eat foods that you never liked before, or completely avoiding certain foods. These cravings and aversions are caused by hormonal changes in your body.
Mood Swings: Pregnant women can experience sudden mood swings as their hormones fluctuate during pregnancy. Mood swings can range from feeling sad and overwhelmed to feeling anxious and excited. Make sure to get enough rest and engage in activities that make you happy and relaxed.
Paying attention to these common pregnancy symptoms can help you understand how your body is changing and ensure that your pregnancy is progressing smoothly. Speak to your doctor if you have any concerns.