Pregnancy symptoms and what to do next
When you get pregnant, your body undergoes many physical and hormonal changes. Some changes you may notice immediately, while others you may mistake for symptoms of something else, such as anxiety or even food poisoning. Every person and pregnancy is different. That means you may have all, some or very few of these early pregnancy symptoms.
Early signs of pregnancy
Missed period
A missed period is the main sign that you’re pregnant according to the Office on Women’s Health.
If you are sexually active and of childbearing age, you should take a pregnancy test if you are one or more weeks late for your menstrual cycle.
Know that missing a period doesn’t always mean you’re pregnant. You may have an irregular cycle or be taking a medication that can affect your period schedule. Either way, it’s important to talk to your doctor if you experience a missed period, so you can see if you’re pregnant or are experiencing another health issue.
Tender or swollen breasts
Sore breasts are common, especially early in pregnancy. As your body responds to an increase in hormones, blood flows to the breasts, which can make them extra tender.
Nausea
Morning sickness is nausea that happens at any time of day. You may start to feel nauseous or experience some vomiting about a month into pregnancy.
Fatigue
Your body will generally become tired more quickly during your pregnancy as it supports not only your daily activities but also works to nurture and safeguard your new baby. Particularly during the first 12 weeks, when there is a significant increase in the hormone progesterone, you may find you tire more quickly than usual.
Pregnancy discharge and light spotting
You may see light bleeding, also called spotting, throughout the first trimester, along with an increase in white discharge throughout your pregnancy.
Most obstetric practices have someone on-call around the clock in case of emergencies. Don’t hesitate to contact your doctor right away if you have vaginal bleeding, which is a heavier blood flow and more serious.
Other pregnancy symptoms
Pregnancy hormone changes can lead to other symptoms, including (but not limited to):
- Food cravings
- Headaches
- Heartburn
- Increased urination
- Lower backaches
- Mood swings
- Urge to avoid certain foods or smells
- Weight changes
It’s important to remember your body is changing daily and although it’s an incredible experience, it’s normal to feel some discomfort. Regularly attending your pregnancy appointments can help you establish a trusted relationship with your OB/GYN and elevate any anxiety you may be experiencing over your pregnancy symptoms.
When to schedule your first pregnancy appointment
Do you think you’re pregnant? Start by taking a pregnancy test at home. Most drug stores and pharmacies sell pregnancy tests, which measure human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) hormone levels in your urine. At-home pregnancy tests often are accurate, though accuracy improves the further along you are in your pregnancy.
You’ll also want to schedule an appointment with a prenatal care provider. As one of the largest healthcare providers in the state, the HCA Healthcare Florida extensive network is home to everyone from OB/GYNs and midwives to high-risk pregnancy doctors and neonatologists. Find an OB/GYN here and schedule a class to feel more prepared for your labor and delivery.
