Think You Might Be Pregnant? Early Signs/Symptoms of Pregnancy...

Even before you confirm your pregnancy, there are some early indicators, besides a missed period.

1. Breast Changes (in preparation for milk production) - Your breasts may become larger, tender, and heavier. There may also be changes in the areolae (brown circles around the nipples), such as them becoming darker in color. The bumps on the areolae (the Montgomery's tubercles) may become more prominent. If you have a lighter complexion, you may also notice the blood vessels in your breasts becoming more obvious as well.
2. Nausea - This tends to be worse in the mornings, but can happen at any time of day. This normally goes away shortly into the 2nd trimester (by weeks 13 or 14).
   
3. Bloating
   
4. Cramping
   
5. Fatigue - Enormous metabolic changes take place in pregnancy and it takes time for your body to adjust to this. This often diminishes by the 2nd trimester.
6. Headaches - Due to hormonal changes, headaches can occur more in early pregnancy.
7. Frequent Urination
8. Increase in discharge
9. And of course, a missed period.

Please note that many early pregnancy symptoms are very similar to the onset of your period. Some women experience next to no symptoms at all. I know it is very tempting to test early, but it is best to wait until after you miss your period to ensure an accurate reading.