Very Early Signs and Symptoms of Pregnancy

Wondering if you might be pregnant? Many women experience signs and symptoms of their pregnancy before they've missed their menstrual period. Here are a few signs of pregnancy--both common and uncommon--that some women notice in the very early stages of pregnancy:

Sore or Swollen Breasts: Some women notice that their breasts are tender in the early stages of pregnancy. In some cases, your breasts may be sore only on the sides. Many women say the sensation is similar to the breast tenderness that generally accompanies PMS.

Dark or Painful Nipples: Darkening of the nipples is also a very early sign of pregnancy. Sometimes this is accompanied by pain or a tingling in the nipples.

"Road Map" Veins: Another early symptom of pregnancy is "road map" veins. This manifests itself as large, dark prominent veins. Typically, these veins are most apparent in the breasts. However, some women notice them all over their bodies, including their legs, stomach and arms.

"Metal" Mouth: Although an unpleasant taste sensation is common in early pregnancy, some women refer to it specifically as "metal mouth." This is because the taste is a heavy and persistent metallic flavor that is apparent even without the presence of food or beverage.

Change of Appetite: An aversion to food is also an early sign of pregnancy, particularly foods that were previously favorites. Conversely, some women also experience inexplicable cravings for unusual foods, or a general increase in appetite.

"Super" Sense of Smell: During early pregnancy, some women also notice an increased sensitivity to odors. These odors are not always unpleasant. Instead, pregnant women just notice that scents seem stronger than usual.

Gas: One of the less pleasant early pregnancy symptoms may be an increase in gas. Some women become significantly more flatulent after they've become pregnant.

Stomach Upset: Digestive upset--particularly diarrhea and nausea--may be a result of the hormones released by the body during early pregnancy.

Abdominal Cramping: Many women experience some type of light abdominal cramping during the early stages of pregnancy. This may be because the uterus is preparing to expand. Some women say this symptom feels very much like PMS cramps.

Cervical Mucous Changes: If you've been charting your cervical mucous, you may notice an unusual amount or consistency as an early pregnancy sign. Some women notice an increase in the amount of cervical mucous their bodies produce, others notice that it is a different consistency than usually experienced during that time of their cycle.

If you think you might be pregnant, consult your physician for a pregnancy test.