During pregnancy, significant hormonal changes occur. These trigger a cascade of symptoms. Some women have a lot of pregnancy symptoms, whereas others just have a few.
Common Pregnancy Symptoms
- Missed Period –
- A missed menstruation is typically the first symptom of a probable pregnancy. Some women, however, have mild spotting around the time of their expected menstruation.
- Breast soreness
- Breasts grow larger, swollen, and tender during pregnancy. These changes are similar to what you may have experienced in the days leading up to your menstruation. The skin surrounding the nipple darkens and the veins in the breast become more visible during pregnancy.
- Frequent Urination
- Pregnancy produces a rise in bodily fluid levels. The bladder is also pressed upon by the swollen uterus. As a result, most women will notice frequent bathroom visits within the first trimester and during the whole pregnancy
- Fatigue
- Tiredness is typical in the early stages of pregnancy. This is most likely due to a significant rise in the sex hormone progesterone.
- During this early period, try to obtain as much sleep or rest as you can. When the placenta is fully established, your energy levels should return during the fourth month of pregnancy.
- Anaemia, which is most frequently caused by iron deficiency, can also induce fatigue during pregnancy. Eating iron-rich foods can help avoid iron deficiency.
- Morning Sickness
- A common symptom that affects almost 90% of pregnant ladies is morning sickness. Nausea, vomiting, and loss of appetite are among the symptoms. Most women who suffer from morning sickness endure symptoms throughout the day, rather than only in the morning. Morning sickness often occurs between the fourth and sixth weeks of pregnancy and may end by week 12, but it might last longer.
- Food Aversions or cravings
- When pregnancy takes a toll on your hormones, it’s typical to crave meals you used to despise and despise those you used to adore.
- Vaginal Discharge
- During pregnancy, an increase in vaginal discharge is a common occurrence. If it is accompanied by itching, discomfort, a foul odour, or pain when passing urine, it might be related to an infection. Seek medical attention immediately.
Other Symptoms
- Mood swings
- Bloating &Constipation
- Back ache
- Breathlessness
- Headaches
- Heartburn and indigestion
- Itchy skin
- Leg cramps
- Smell sensitivity
- Weight gain
When to seek medical attention for signs and symptoms of pregnancy
It is suggested that you contact your hospital if you are concerned or experience any of the following symptoms throughout your pregnancy:
- Vaginal blood
- Less baby movement than normal
- Amniotic fluid leakage (that is if your waters break)
- A fever that won’t go away
- Vomiting that won’t stop
- Headache that won’t go away
- Acute stomach discomfort, and pain that does not go away
- Vision loss or impaired vision is common
- Widespread itching of the skin
- Abrupt swelling of the face, hands, and feet.