Early Pregnancy – What Are The Signs?
By Judy Wellsworth

Many women don't even realize that they're pregnant until more than a month after fertilization takes place. This is because the most common sign of early pregnancy used as an indicator by women is a missed period. When they do suspect that they are pregnant because of this, they are already well into the very crucial weeks of early pregnancy.

At about the eighth week, when a majority of would-be moms have their first check-up, the embryo has already grown to about an inch and has started to form recognizable body parts. This stage of early pregnancy called the embryonic stage is a highly critical phase in the development of the fetus.


At this time, exposure to radiation, cigarette smoke, and alcohol can have deleterious effects on the baby. It is therefore extremely important that if there is any risk or possibility of a woman getting pregnant, she should refrain from the intake of these substances until she's absolutely sure that no fertilization has taken place.

Physical changes during early pregnancy

Apart from the missed period, there are also other signs to indicate that you are in the first few weeks of early pregnancy. A common symptom is tenderness in the breasts, and a slight pain in the lower abdominal area. These two symptoms, however, are also common PMS signs, so we need to look into the others which are more exclusive to early pregnancy.

Nausea or vomiting is an almost sure sign that you are into early pregnancy. This is also called "morning sickness" as it is most often experienced by pregnant women as soon as they wake up, but it can actually be felt anytime of day. Often, morning sickness is triggered by a smell that is suddenly repulsive to the pregnant woman.

Cravings are also an obvious sign of early pregnancy. This is when the woman has preferences over certain types of food, likely caused by changes in their taste buds and sense of smell. Fatigue is also often experienced, as is the need to frequently urinate.

Early

pregnancy is a difficult experience for some but a bittersweet time for many expectant mothers. A woman feels anxious about the risks of miscarrying and how continuing to work, for instance, could affect her baby. The important thing is to be familiar with the symptoms of early pregnancy so that one will know when to consult a doctor if anything out of the ordinary occurs.

Bleeding is not a normal symptom of early pregnancy. If you notice spotting that doesn't stop, see your obstetrician immediately. Backaches are common, though, and they normally dissipate after a few minutes of resting. It is important not to overwork yourself during the first trimester as the embryo still hasn't completely embedded itself in the uterine wall.

After these stages of early pregnancy, though, there is a brief relief from the harrowing symptoms of the first trimester. This is the time when the mother can resume doing her usual chores and exercises. Keep in mind that there are certain exercises and sports activities that should never be undertaken by pregnant women.

In all, early pregnancy doesn't have to be an unpleasant experience if you keep a positive outlook. To take your mind off the uncomfortable symptoms of early pregnancy, keep a journal and write down your thoughts. Create a scrapbook and share it with your loved ones. Better yet, go online and search for websites that bring together women who are also undergoing early pregnancy, and participate in a discussion forum.

By: Judy Wellsworth

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