pregnancy symptoms indicate that one's body is preparing to give birth to a new life. Pregnancy symptoms may vary from woman to woman therefore one has to observe the pregnancy symptoms very minutely, so that one can start taking precautionary measures accordingly.
Missed Menstrual Period
A missed cycle can be a sign of pregnancy. It is usually the first indicator that conception has occurred, although some women claim to know they are pregnant before they miss a period.
Morning Sickness
Nausea can be a sign that a woman is pregnant. Many women say that they've had nausea up to two weeks before an expected monthly cycle and before any other symptom. Eating crackers before getting out of the bed in the morning can help, and eating several smaller meals instead of larger ones throughout the day can also limit nausea.
Tender Breasts
Tender, swollen breasts are another early symptom. While tender breasts are a symptom of an impending cycle, enlarged breasts are not. Sore and swollen breasts with a tingling sensation can be an early indicator of pregnancy.
Fatigue
Extreme fatigue can be another indicator of pregnancy, especially if other symptoms are
present. A nap a day can help a pregnant woman maintain normal daily activities.
Frequent Urination
An increased urge to urinate can be an indicator and usually occurs between 6 to 8 weeks pregnant.
Pregnancy Headaches
Headaches in early pregnancy are a common symptom and begin at about the 6th week. A quick nap can help diminish headaches in pregnancy.
As difficult as headaches in pregnancy can be to tolerate, remember that this is a temporary condition, and they diminish considerably by the end of the third or fourth month. Most women don't experience headaches past that point, unless other medical conditions are triggering them.
Preeclampsia or toxemia can begin with headache and can be dangerous to a pregnant woman. If your headaches persist or return later in pregnancy, be sure to call your healthcare provider immediately.
Spotting
Spotting is a common symptom in pregnancy. Some women report what seems to be a short, light period before the onset of other symptoms. This may be implantation bleeding (when the egg implants itself into the lining of the uterus) and not a monthly period at all . If you are pregnant and you experience spotting, check in with your doctor, as spotting is also an indicator of miscarriage in early pregnancy.
Lightheadedness
Some pregnant women experience lightheadedness and may even actually faint. Again, this is usually not an issue past the fourth month of pregnancy. If it occurs later, see your doctor.
Constipation
Hormonal changes can affect the digestive system and cause constipation. Drinking plenty of water and exercising can help. A pregnant woman should ask her doctor to recommend exercises that she can do safely while pregnant.
Heartburn
Heartburn can be a symptom throughout pregnancy. In months 1 to 4, heartburn is caused by hormonal changes. In months 5 to 9, the fetus can put pressure on a pregnant woman's organs. Eating frequent smaller meals and remaining in an upright position for at least an hour after eating can help reduce the incidence or severity of heartburn.
By the end of the fourth month of pregnancy, most of these pregnancy symptoms subside and elation and joy overcome most any mother-to-be. Energy levels return to normal as does the desire for food. If this is not the case, contact your doctor.