How many of these early pregnancy signs are you familiar with? If you’ve been pregnant before, did you notice any of these tell-tale signs?
Late period
The most obvious early sign of pregnancy which most of us already know is a late period. If your periods are usually very regular and your next one doesn't arrive on time, this could be a sign you're pregnant.
Sore breasts
Are your boobs aching? Sore breasts can occur in early pregnancy due to a surge of the hormones oestrogen and progesterone. This is an exaggeration of the soreness you may feel in your breasts just before your period.
Morning sickness
Unfortunately, not only limited to the morning! All those pregnancy hormones starting to fly about can make you feel rather queasy. Fortunately, for most ladies, this starts to settle down by the start of the 2nd trimester. In the meantime, there are various herbal remedies and alternative therapies which can help to treat morning sickness.
Fatigue
Feeling exhausted in early pregnancy isn't unusual. Again, you have hormones to thank for this! It's important you take time to rest and re-charge wherever possible. Try not to get run down - aim for 8 hours of sleep every night and eat a balanced diet to nourish your body and stay as healthy as possible.
Food cravings
Fancying pickles and ice cream? You're not alone! Pregnancy food cravings are fairly common early pregnancy signs. Feel free to indulge, as long as it's food which is safe to eat during pregnancy and not too unhealthy! In moderation, treats are absolutely fine. Altered sense of taste during early pregnancy is also a 'thing', with some women reporting a strong, metallic taste in their mouths.
Headache
It's not uncommon to experience headaches in early pregnancy. Paracetamol can be used to relieve any discomfort. However, you shouldn't become too reliant on taking this and it's important you discuss with your pharmacist, midwife or GP if you feel you're requiring pain relief over a longer period of time.
Mood swings
Feeling emotional and experiencing mood swings in early pregnancy is normal. Your hormones can make you feel a bit out of sorts, or 'all over the place'. Try not to worry - given time these feelings will lift and you'll feel more back to your normal self. In the meantime, feel free to let it all out! You'll probably feel better for it, compared to bottling everything in.
See your GP
Of course, the signs in this blog post shouldn't be used as a substitute for taking a pregnancy test, and this is always advisable if you think you may be pregnant. It's important you visit your GP so they can advise on your next steps.
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