Early signs of pregnancy

If you are in tune with your body, you may notice certain signs that you are pregnant soon after conception. However, most women won’t experience any early pregnancy symptoms until the fertilised egg attaches itself to the uterine wall, several days after conception. Others may notice no signs of pregnancy for weeks until they miss their period. You may experience all, some, or none of these signs of pregnancy.

From 1 week after ovulation

Implantation Bleeding
This can be one of the earliest symptoms of pregnancy, a slight staining of a pink or brown colour. It can occur on about day 6 - 12 after conception as the egg attaches itself to the uterine wall. You may also experience some spotting and cramps.

Light bleeding may also occur for other reasons, like menstruation or an infection.

Rising basal body temperature (BBT)
If you have been measuring your basal body temperature, you may notice a rise in temperature 6 -8 days after conception. This is the most consistant early sign of pregnancy, but as all signs if may not occur.

Tender/swollen breasts
If you are pregnant, your breasts may become increasingly tender, similar to the way they feel before your period. This can occur 1 - 2 weks after conception.

Fatigue/Tiredness
Feeling tired or more fatigued is a pregnancy sign which may start as early as the first week after conception.

Backaches
Lower backaches may be a symptom that occurs early in pregnancy.


From 2 weeks after conception

Missing menstruation
If you have regular periods, a missing period is one of the surest signs of pregnancy - prompting women to take a pregnancy test.

Food cravings
Food cravings sometimes can be a sign of pregnancy. Don’t rely on them as a sure symptom as it could be all in your head, or even a sign that your body is low on a particular nutrient.

Altered sense of taste
You may notice that your sense of taste changes. Some women say they have a metallic taste in their mouth, others that they cannot stand the taste of coffee, tea, or a food they usually like.

Frequent urination
Once the embryo implants and begins producing the hormone human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG), you may need to go to the bathroom more often.

Of course, the surest way to find out is by purchasing Pregnancy Tests. They can be used from up to three days before your period is expected.