Early Signs of Pregnancy

Early Signs of Pregnancy Are Important For A Healthy Baby

Early signs of pregnancy can appear within two weeks of conception. Most women don't think of pregnancy in this very early stage, yet their body is already changing and some of the earliest signs of pregnancy will often begin to appear.

Good prenatal care and early detection of pregnancy is very important to both mother and the unborn child. If you have any of the very early symptoms of pregnancy listed below and believe you may be pregnant, don't hesitate to visit your doctor or midwife.

You'll get the most reliable results from a home pregnancy test if you wait for a week or two after you miss your period. But I know that can seem like a really long time.

Here are the most common signs and symptoms of early pregnancy.

1. Morning Sickness - This is one of the most well-known pregnancy signs. It usually begins within 2 to 8 weeks after conception. And, the nausea and vomiting can hit at any time of the day, not just in the morning.

2. Frequent Urination - If your menstrual cycle is late and you find yourself running to the bathroom more than usual, this may be an early pregnancy sign.

3. Darkening of the Areola - The area around the nipples may darken and appear surrounded by small bumps. The bumps are actually tiny glands that are effected by pregnancy hormones.

4. Food cravings - Food cravings can begin almost immediately after conception.

5. Tender and Swollen Breasts - This can happen just a few days after conception.

It's important that you realize that while the absence of your period is one of the very early pregnancy signs some women may continue to have their periods or light bleeding during the first trimester. For this reason, even if you have your period and still have some of the early pregnancy symptoms it's important that you contact your medical professional.

High quality prenatal care is vital to your baby's healthy growth and development. If you don't have health insurance or your policy doesn't cover maternity, there are low cost options that also offer excellent care.