Most women experience the first symptoms of pregnancy within a few weeks of conception. The first month of pregnancy brings a variety of bodily changes. Symptoms vary for each woman as well as for each pregnancy, and most symptoms are not exclusive to pregnancy. A woman may be pregnant and not experience any symptoms. Taking a home pregnancy test and visiting with a medical professional to confirm a pregnancy is advised by the Mayo Clinic.
Missed Period and Implantation Bleeding
One of the first indicators a woman is pregnant is a missed period. A woman menstruates approximately every 28 days. A missed or skipped period is not a definite sign of a pregnancy but in combination with additional symptoms may confirm a pregnancy is present. A small amount of bleeding called implantation bleeding is common. This should not be confused with a woman’s period. Implantation bleeding occurs when the fertilized egg attaches to the uterus wall. The bleeding, often light pink, is seen six to 12 days after conception and lasts between one and three days, according to the American Pregnancy Association. Implantation bleeding often occurs slightly before a woman is supposed to begin menstruating–leading some women to believe the light spotting is the beginning of a menstrual cycle.
Swollen Breasts
Breasts become tender and swollen as early as one week after conception, due to hormonal changes. Breasts are sore or tingly when touched. Breasts may look noticeably fuller and swollen. Though breasts are larger, milk production does not begin until late in the pregnancy.
Nausea and Vomiting
A woman has increased episodes of nausea and vomiting as early as 10 days after fertilization due to hormones created by cells of the placenta, according to Cedars Sinai Medical Center. Nausea may also be associated with rising levels of estrogen in a woman’s body. Often referred to as morning sickness, feelings of nausea and vomiting occur at any time–day or night. A woman also has a heightened level of smell during pregnancy. Particular odors, such as specific foods, smoke or even fragrances, can cause nausea.
Fatigue
Being overly tired is one of the classic signs of pregnancy. According to the Mayo Clinic, fatigue is common due to the increased levels of progesterone. High levels of the hormone will put a person to sleep. Additional symptoms of pregnancy such as low blood sugar, increased blood production and low blood pressure also cause fatigue in a pregnant woman. These additional symptoms may also cause faintness and dizziness.
About this Author
Freelance writer Julie Hampton has worked as an artist, writer and event planner for more than eight years. She also served in the U.S. Army as a medic and nurse specializing in geriatrics. Hampton has a degree in journalism, and studied public relations at The University of West Florida.
