First Trimester Pregnancy Signs: Are You Pregnant?

Are you pregnant? Do you often wonder if maybe you could be pregnant? The signs of pregnancy in the first trimester are often overlooked. They can be subtle signs that mimic colds and viruses. In fact, some women can even get through their entire first trimester without even knowing they are pregnant. Finding out you are pregnant early is important so you can begin your prenatal care. But with so much information out there, how can you tell the early signs of pregnancy?

When I first got pregnant, I starred in disbelief at those 2 little lines. Was I really pregnant? Was I really going to be a mom? It was the happiest day of my life, and also the scariest. I was now responsible for this little life that I carried inside of me. Even though we had been planning his arrival for quite some time, I could hardly believe that in just 9 months he would finally be here. As a nurse, I thought I knew it all, but even I was amazed at how awful I felt during my first trimester.

There are many signs and symptoms in early pregnancy, but it's important to remember that only an ultrasound is 100 % accurate at confirming a pregnancy. Early first trimester pregnancy signs and symptoms range from fatigue to nausea and often mimic cold and flu symptoms, so seeing these signs don't necessarily mean you are pregnant. If you think you are pregnant you should take a home pregnancy test to confirm your suspicions, then make an appointment to see your OBGYN for a prenatal physical exam.

During your first trimester, your body is undergoing many changes. Increased blood flow to the uterus and throughout the body will start to take its' toll on the unsuspecting mother. The first sign of pregnancy happens quickly. Approximately 2 weeks after conception, most women notice their menstrual period is very light or non-existent. An absence of a missed period is often the first sign most women will notice. But don't rush out and buy that home pregnancy test just yet. Many women do not have regular cycles, and missed periods or late periods can be the result of an irregular ovulation.

Once your period is late, you may notice a feeling of fullness in your lower abdomen. That feeling is the embryo implanting in your uterus and the uterine lining beginning to thicken. All that action means that blood flow is increased to your pelvis, which is what results in that full feeling. Fullness in your lower abdomen is another common sign of pregnancy. When I got pregnant, that was the first sign I felt. It actually feels like you are carrying a small water balloon, and I guess in a way you are. Many women; however, do not feel this sensation. Some women may even experience a mild cramping instead. Severe cramping; however, is not a normal sign of pregnancy and you should notify your OBGYN immediately. It could be a sign of an ectopic pregnancy. Any cramping or bleeding in your first trimester should be taken seriously.

Another common sign in early pregnancy is nausea and vomiting. This sign really varies for all women. It usually starts around 6 weeks after conception and begins to improve after the first trimester is over. Some lucky mothers-to-be never experience any nausea, while some women have severe vomiting lasting throughout the pregnancy. If you have severe vomiting throughout the day, contact your doctor immediately to prevent dehydration. If you can't keep any liquids down, your doctor may choose to have you hospitalized to get your vomiting under control. More than likely; however, you will just experience nausea in random bouts throughout the day. You can try drinking ginger infused herbal tea, or eating crackers throughout the day. What ever works for you, DO IT! When I was nauseous during my 1st trimester, I found that drinking Orange Gatorade really helped me feel better. I don't know why it worked, but I was grateful. Unfortunately, morning sickness isn't just confined to the morning hours. You can experience nausea any time of the day. When I was pregnant with my daughter, I was nauseous every day from 5:00-6:00 pm!! Just in time for dinner!

The most common sign or symptom of early pregnancy is fatigue. Now it is important to know that pregnancy fatigue is not just a vague feeling of being tired. It is a knock you on your face, can't keep your eyes open kind of fatigue. I have never experienced exhaustion quite like when I was pregnant in my first trimester. Of course, fatigue is associated with just about every illness out there so let your doctor know if you experience sudden fatigue without any other signs of pregnancy. Sudden fatigue could be a sign of an under active thyroid, or viral infection.

All women are different and all pregnancies are different. You may experience some or all of these symptoms with one pregnancy and none the next time you are pregnant. Early pregnancy signs may be easy to miss, but knowing what they are does make it easier. Listen to your body, rest and drink plenty of fluids if you think you are pregnant. Go buy a home pregnancy test to confirm that you are expecting, and schedule your doctor's appointment as soon as you can. Start taking pre-natal multivitamins as soon as you find out you are pregnant or earlier if you are trying to get pregnant, and do not take any medications without your OB's permission.

Pregnancy is a wonderful time, even if the symptoms aren't much fun. Try to stay positive and remember that this won't last forever. Soon you will be cruising into your 2nd trimester feeling like a new woman. Enjoy your pregnancy and all of its' joys and all of its' aches. Like life, it goes by way too fast.