Pregnancy Symptom - How To Find Out If You Are Pregnant
A pregnancy symptom is a way to make you aware of your condition. Early pregnancy symptoms can range from discharge to cramps and bloating. The most important sign of pregnancy is a missed period. However, periods can be delayed by stress and improper diet. Pregnancy health is an issue that has to be addressed right from the time you notice early symptoms of pregnancy.
Pregnancy Symptoms
Pregnancy symptoms vary - some women may have all the symptoms, some have few. The intensity of the symptoms also varies. If your missed period is accompanied by any other pregnancy symptom, chances are you are pregnant. This provided you do not have any health problems.
Some Of The Earliest Pregnancy Symptoms, Right After Conception, Are:
- Implantation Bleeding - when the fertilized egg descends the fallopian tube and attaches to the inner lining of the uterus, there is slight bleeding and spotting. Implantation bleeding occurs 3-4 days after conception. If the color of blood is dark and you feel severe cramping, see a doctor immediately.
- Cramping - Cramping occurs when the embryo is attached to the uterine wall, causing the ligaments in the uterus to expand to make room for the baby to grow. This is similar to menstrual cramping. If you have severe pain, consult your doctor fast.
- Queasiness - Hormone changes in your body will make you feel queasy, even nauseous. The popular notion of "morning sickness" is not quite true though - you can feel sick even late at night. Morning sickness is another pregnancy symptom that often takes women by surprise, giving them an inkling of their condition.
- Tiredness - If you are an active, healthy person, sudden fatigue could be a sign of pregnancy. You may feel exhausted all the time, need naps in the daytime and feel lethargic.
- Dizziness - Dizziness happens due to sudden drop in blood pressure as you try to rise from a seated position, or get out of bed.
- Frequent Urination - You may want to go to the bathroom more often, as the hormones in your body have caused changes in your metabolism. As the baby grows, she puts pressure on your bladder, making you want to empty it more often.
- Swollen Breasts - Right after conception, you may notice swelling in your breasts, or tenderness- similar to what you feel just before your periods. Hormone changes are again responsible for this, preparing your body for motherhood and breastfeeding.
Taking Care Of Your Health
Once your doctor confirms pregnancy, it is time to think of your health and the baby's growth. You may need to change your lifestyle to a healthier one - cutting out smoking, alcohol, caffeine and drugs. Have a healthy diet, but do not "eat for two". Follow your doctor's orders, and take the prenatal vitamins regularly. Avoid stress and situations that make you feel unhappy and depressed. Discuss your needs and feelings with your partner, friends and family. Take it easy at work and cut down on the late work hours and overtime. Gentle exercises are necessary as long as you are not suffering from any pregnancy related complication. Keep your doctor updated on any new exercise, diet plan or medication you want to try.
Pregnancy brings its own emotions and changes; deal with them calmly once your pregnancy symptom is confirmed.
