Early pregnancy is characterized by many changes in the body. Some of these changes may be subtle while others stick out, quite literally. However, just because you may be experiencing one or two of these symptoms doesn’t necessarily mean that you are really pregnant. Each woman’s body is different, and these symptoms could be indicative of many things other than pregnancy. Seeing many of them altogether should prompt a pregnancy test. Keeping calm and not worrying are the best ideas when trying to figure out if you are pregnant or not. The stress of worrying could inflict some of these symptoms on its own.
Sore Breasts
Painful breasts are a symptom of pregnancy but also of the menstrual cycle. Wear supportive bras to keep the weight of your breasts from aggravating the pain. If the pain persists without explanation consult a physician.
Peeing Often
Are you suddenly using the bathroom a whole lot more with little to no control? Your bladder is emptying faster in order to make room for your growing baby. Know where all the bathrooms are and do not be shy about going when you have to. People will understand when they know you are pregnant.
Increased Fatigue
The body uses sleep to heal and regenerate for the next day. During pregnancy, a woman’s body is under much more stress then ever before, and it needs more sleep. Find times for power naps and try to get more solid nighttime sleep to combat early onset fatigue.
Pimples?!
Most women will not be thrilled about the return of acne. Other skin issues such as dryness and blotchy coloring may occur as well. These changes are due to the influx of hormones due to the pregnancy.
You Want What?
An age-old pregnancy craving, pickles and ice cream. Individual cravings will vary and appetite will increase. However, just craving chocolate cake constantly does not mean you need to eat it constantly with a side of mozzarella sticks. A healthy diet is extremely important for the health of both mommy and baby.
Queasy?
Good old morning sickness. Feeling nausea after eating or feeling queasy all day long could be a pregnancy symptom. It could also be a sign of illness or food poisoning.
Cramps
Early pregnancy cramping is actually the uterus stretching and growing in preparation for the baby. If the cramping continues and become severe, contact a physician.
Bloating
Regular menstrual cycles are accompanied by bloating, and so is pregnancy. This is different from the enlargement of the belly due to the growing child. Before a woman begins to show, she may bloat because of hormones.
Irregular Cycle
Irregularity in the menstrual cycle could also be a pregnancy symptom. A lighter, inconsistent period should be tracked to help determine a due date for the baby. Cycle irregularity can also be caused by stress or a change in diet among many other things.
No Aunt Flo
Completely skipping a cycle is the trigger for most women to take a pregnancy test. A period ceases because the egg has fertilized and does not need removal from the body. However, missing a period could also be stress and diet related.
Pregnancy is quite possible if many of these symptoms have become present in every day life. Obtain a pregnancy test, or two or three, just to be sure. If the tests are negative, consult a physician. If they are positive, congratulations are in order!
Located in Kettering in the Mama DiSalvo’s building, Women’s Center-Kettering offers free pregnancy tests, free ultrasounds, and other related services. Initial consultations to Women’s Center-Kettering can be scheduled on-line by going to our website: www.womenscenterohio.com/kettering.aspx. Prefer to call for an appointment? Call 937-643-4673 for scheduling.
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