Early Signs of Pregnancy: The First Symptoms to Look For

A missed period is the most reliable early sign of pregnancy, but many people notice other changes first. Some appear within a week or two of conception, while others take longer. Every pregnancy is different, and some people have very few symptoms at all.

The most common early signs

• A missed period. If your cycle is regular and your period is late, pregnancy is possible.
• Sore or swollen breasts. Hormone changes can make breasts tender, heavier or tingly, and the nipples may darken.
• Tiredness. Feeling unusually exhausted is very common in the first trimester.
• Nausea or vomiting. Often called morning sickness, it can happen at any time of day and commonly starts around 6 weeks of pregnancy.
• Needing to pass urine more often. This can start early in pregnancy.
• Light spotting or mild cramps. Some people have light bleeding around the time of implantation, much lighter than a period.
• Changes in taste and smell. A metallic taste, new food dislikes or a stronger sense of smell are common.
• Mood changes. Rising hormones can make you feel more emotional.

Is it pregnancy or my period?

Many early pregnancy signs, such as tender breasts, cramps, bloating and mood changes, are also common before a period. Symptoms alone cannot tell you whether you are pregnant. A pregnancy test is the only reliable way to know.

When to take a test

Home tests detect the hormone hCG and are most reliable from the first day of a missed period. Testing earlier can give a negative result even if you are pregnant. If you get a negative result and your period still does not come, test again a few days later.

What to do if your test is positive

• Start or keep taking a daily folic acid supplement (400 micrograms).
• Contact your doctor or midwife to arrange your first appointment.
• Avoid alcohol and smoking, and check any medicines with your doctor.

When to get medical help

Contact a doctor straight away if you have a positive test and severe pain on one side of your tummy, pain in the tip of your shoulder, heavy bleeding, or you feel faint. These can be signs of an ectopic pregnancy, which needs urgent care.