Am I Pregnant?
Wondering if you’re pregnant is a common experience. Here, we explore the subtle signs that might indicate you’re beginning your pregnancy journey.
Eager to understand the
signs of pregnancy and
find certainty?
Navigating hormonal changes can be confusing. Whether eagerly anticipating a positive test or feeling bewildered by your body’s signals, these shifts differ for each of us. To offer reassurance and clarity, we’ve compiled clues that may suggest you are pregnant.
Recognising early signs
Your pregnancy journey is unique. While comparing experiences with other women can be helpful, sometimes you may not feel any pregnancy signs. Using a pregnancy test can provide clarity. However, if you notice changes, here are some common symptoms to look for.
- Missed period: Missing a period is often the first classic sign of pregnancy. However, stress, intense workouts, or hormonal changes can also affect your cycle. If you miss a period, consider discussing it with your GP to ensure everything is okay.
- Frequent bathroom trips: A common early symptom, even before a missed period, is frequent urination. Pregnancy hormones make your kidneys work harder, prompting more trips to the bathroom.
- Nap time all the time: Frequent naps are natural during pregnancy due to high progesterone levels. This might ease in the second trimester, but it’s okay to rest often and listen to your body.
- Morning sickness: Nausea during pregnancy can occur at any time, not just in the morning. It can start early but not everyone experiences it. If severe, talk to your healthcare provider to provide support and reassurance.
- Sore and swollen breasts: Breast tenderness is common in early pregnancy due to hormonal changes. It’s temporary and may include swelling or darkening of the areolas. If you notice these changes or feel your bras tighter, consider taking one of our pregnancy tests for clarity.
Other signs you might be pregnant
While the above symptoms are common in early pregnancy, there are others to be aware of. Consider talking to your doctor or taking a pregnancy test for confirmation. Here are some additional signs to watch for:
- Backache: Back discomfort is common in early pregnancy due to loosening ligaments and posture changes. Expectant mothers often find relief by wearing comfortable shoes, sitting in supportive chairs, avoiding heavy lifting, and trying gentle exercises like swimming.
- Breathlessness: Climbing stairs may leave you breathless during pregnancy due to increased lung capacity from progesterone and the physical demands of a growing baby. Make sure to take breaks as needed for comfort.
- Constipation: Pregnancy can bring on the bothersome symptom of constipation. Stay hydrated, eat fiber-rich foods, and discuss pregnancy-suitable laxatives with your doctor.
- Haemorrhoids: Pregnancy-related haemorrhoids are uncomfortable and often caused by straining during bowel movements or pressure from your baby. You’re not alone in experiencing this. Reach out to your healthcare provider for guidance and relief.
- Headaches: Persistent headaches in pregnancy are common, but if they continue or worsen, it’s important to seek advice from your healthcare provider for further attention.
- Heartburn and Indigestion: Pregnancy can bring on heartburn and indigestion due to hormonal changes and a growing uterus. Seek personalised advice from your doctor to manage these symptoms.
- Itchy Skin: Changes in your skin during pregnancy can lead to itching and discomfort. Whether it’s dry skin or a medically diagnosed condition like PUPPP (Pruritic Urticarial Papules and Plaques of Pregnancy), these changes are temporary and manageable with proper care.
- Leg Cramps: Leg cramps in pregnancy are common. Stay hydrated and gently stretch your legs to ease discomfort.
- Mood Changes: It’s important to recognise and validate your feelings as pregnancy hormones can affect your mood. Seek comfort from loved ones and your GP for guidance.
- Carpal Tunnel Syndrome: Tingling hands may indicate carpal tunnel syndrome in pregnancy. Stay mindful of your body’s signals and discuss concerns with your doctor.
- Vaginal Discharge and Vaginitis: Changes in vaginal discharge are common in pregnancy, but discomfort, odours, or itching may indicate vaginitis. Seek diagnosis and treatment from your doctor for peace of mind.
- Varicose Veins and Leg Swelling: Pregnancy can cause varicose veins and leg swelling due to increased blood volume and uterine pressure. Take breaks, elevate your legs, and stay hydrated to ease these symptoms.
How to check whether or not you are pregnant
Confirming pregnancy usually begins with a reliable test. Additionally, consult your GP for further guidance and support.