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Pregnancy Symptoms:

Updated: 1 day ago

Pregnancy is an incredible journey, marked by excitement and occasional challenges. Throughout this time, women experience numerous physical and emotional changes known as pregnancy symptoms. Understanding these symptoms is crucial for expecting mothers as it allows them to prepare for the journey ahead and seek the appropriate care when needed.



The most common early symptoms can emerge as soon as a week after conception. One of the earliest signs is a missed period, which often prompts women to take a pregnancy test. However, before this noticeable change, subtle signs may signal the beginning of pregnancy.


For instance, tender or swollen breasts are a frequent early symptom. Hormonal changes can heighten sensitivity in the breast area, resulting in discomfort even when wearing a regular bra. A study showed that over 50% of women report breast tenderness as one of the first signs of pregnancy. This discomfort indicates that the body is gearing up for breastfeeding due to significant hormonal shifts.


Close-up view of a pregnancy test showing a positive result
A positive result on a pregnancy test indicating early pregnancy.

Common Physical Symptoms


As pregnancy progresses, women may face a variety of physical symptoms that can range from mild discomfort to more noticeable changes.



Contrary to what its name suggests, morning sickness often occurs at any time of day. Typically starting around the sixth week of pregnancy, it can last until the end of the first trimester. While not every woman will experience this, those who do may feel nauseous, vomit, and develop aversions to specific foods or smells. Research indicates that about 70% of pregnant women experience morning sickness. To manage this, strategies such as eating small meals frequently special before you go to bed to make sure your stomach is not empty and staying hydrated adding bone broth, high protein soup to your diet and have a peppermint essential oil in your pocket to smell it can be helpful.


Eye-level view of a serene landscape symbolizing calmness during pregnancy
A tranquil landscape representing the importance of relaxation during pregnancy.


Another common symptom is fatigue. Many women report feeling more tired than usual due to hormonal changes and increased energy demands from the growing fetus. Approximately 80% of pregnant women experience some level of fatigue during their first trimester. Along with physical tiredness, emotional changes may also arise, with mood swings becoming a regular part of daily life. These fluctuations are largely influenced by hormonal changes and the psychological adjustments to motherhood. Rest as much as possible and enjoy fresh fruit and vegtable. Connect with the nature, Mother nature!

During pregnancy, it's normal to experience mood changes, but persistent symptoms of depression or anxiety warrant attention. Warning signs include prolonged sadness, irritability, loss of interest in activities, changes in appetite or sleep, and negative thoughts about yourself or the baby. These symptoms can be a sign of prenatal depression or anxiety, and early intervention is crucial for the well-being of both the mother and baby! Seek help from your provider as soon as possible. "Depression is like a baby monster if you feed it it will gets biger and biger till it will eat you!" Do not feed your sadness STOP it and ask help asap. You deserve to be happy and remember you are not a lone in your journy!



Pregnancy can also alter taste and smell. Many women find themselves craving specific foods or developing aversions to others. These cravings often reflect the body's nutritional needs. For example, a craving for dairy products might indicate an increased demand for calcium, while aversions to greasy foods could be the body's way of managing nausea. Studies show that about 50% of mothers report experiencing varying taste and smell changes during pregnancy.


The Role of Hormones


Hormones play a crucial role in the array of pregnancy symptoms experienced. During pregnancy, the body produces higher levels of hormones like human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG), estrogen, relaxin and progesterone. These hormones support fetal development while causing various physical and emotional changes in the mother. By understanding how hormones affect the body, mothers can better grasp the challenges they may encounter, from mood swings. Remember you are like a beautiful river and flow like a river!


Empowering the Journey


Navigating pregnancy symptoms is a vital aspect of the path to motherhood. From nausea to mood swings, each symptom offers insights into the significant changes occurring within the body. Recognizing and understanding these signs empowers expectant mothers to seek the support and care they need.


While every woman’s pregnancy is unique, being informed can help demystify the often overwhelming sensations associated with this life-changing experience. If any symptoms seem unusually severe or persistent, it is always advisable to consult with healthcare professionals. Remember, you are not alone on this journey, and a wealth of resources is available to guide you through every stage of pregnancy.

Here is a list of #pregnancySymptoms :

🔹 

  • Fatigue

  • Nausea and/or vomiting (especially in the morning)

  • Food aversions or cravings

  • Breast tenderness or swelling

  • Increased urination

  • Mild cramping (without bleeding)

  • Light spotting (implantation bleeding, early on)

  • Bloating or gas

  • Mood swings

  • Increased saliva

  • Heightened sense of smell

🔹 

Digestive & GI

  • Constipation

  • Heartburn or reflux

  • Gas and bloating

  • Changes in appetite

  • Hemorrhoids (especially later in pregnancy) high in fibers fruits and vegtables

  • Pica (craving non-food items—mention it to your provider just in case)

🔹 

Musculoskeletal / Circulatory

  • Round ligament pain (sharp groin or lower belly pain, often positional)

  • Back pain

  • Hip or pelvic discomfort

  • Leg cramps

  • Varicose veins

  • Swelling in feet, ankles, or hands (mild and improves with rest)

  • Carpal tunnel symptoms (tingling, numbness in fingers)

🔹 

Skin, Hair, and Nails

  • Darkening of areolas, your skin's adaptation for 8-12 times #breastfeeding per day!

  • Linea nigra (a dark vertical line on the belly) high chance to disapear after pregnancy.

  • Stretch marks, Tattoo of pregnany!

  • Mild acne

  • “Pregnancy glow” or oily skin

  • Hair thickening or thinning, Enjoy your beautiful hair!

  • Skin tags

🔹 

Emotional & Mental

  • Mood changes

  • Anxiety or irritability

  • Vivid dreams

  • Forgetfulness (“pregnancy brain”)

🔹 

Respiratory & Cardio

  • Shortness of breath (due to upward pressure on lungs)

  • Nasal congestion

  • Mild dizziness or lightheadedness (due to blood pressure or sugar changes)

  • Heart palpitations (brief, occasional)

🔹 

Urinary & Genital

  • Increased vaginal discharge (white or clear)

  • Mild spotting after intercourse or exams

  • Increased urge to pee

  • Occasional stress incontinence (small leaks when sneezing, laughing)

🔹 

Breast & Uterus

  • Tender, heavy breasts

  • Colostrum leakage

  • Braxton Hicks contractions (irregular, painless)

⚠️ 

Watch Out / Call Your Provider If:

  • Heavy bleeding or regular or severe cramping

  • Persistent vomiting/dehydration

  • Sudden or severe swelling (face, hands)

  • Blurred vision, headaches, or upper abdominal pain (possible preeclampsia signs)

  • Decreased fetal movement (after 28 weeks)

  • Painful or burning urination

  • High fever

  • Leaking fluid from vagina (could be amniotic fluid)

  • Shortness of breath

  • Pale or yellow skin

  • Cold hands and feet

  • Difficulty concentrating



This blog is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for medical advice if you experience any symptoms or have concerns during pregnancy, please contact your healthcare provider.


Writer: Elmira Farnoosh LM, CPM

Citations & References:

  1. American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG)

  2. Mayo Clinic

  3. Cleveland Clinic

  4. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)

  5. March of Dimes

  6. Johns Hopkins Medicine





 
 
 

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