## How Can You Tell You Are Pregnant
Pregnancy is a special time in a woman or couple’s life, and it’s important to know when it first begins. Knowing when a woman is pregnant can help ensure that she obtains appropriate care and nutrition necessary for the health of her and the baby.
Here are some of the common signs and symptoms of pregnancy to look out for:
#### Missed Period
The most obvious sign of pregnancy is the missed menstrual period. Most pregnancies will result in a missed period within two weeks of conception. However, sometimes a woman’s period is slightly delayed or she may be having breakthrough bleeding. A bleeding in the first trimester is usually lighter than a normal period and may last for a shorter amount of time.
#### Nausea and Vomiting
This symptom is commonly seen as morning sickness. However, it can happen at any time of day and can occur with or without vomiting. Nausea is most commonly seen within 6-8 weeks of conception, but it can begin as early as 4 weeks.
#### Changes in Breasts
During pregnancy, the breasts may become swollen and tender. The nipples and the area around them may become darker, and the veins may be more visible. The increased hormone production, caused by the pregnancy, can cause sensitive, tingly and sore breasts.
#### Fatigue
Fatigue is a common symptom during early pregnancy. Many women report feeling exhausted during the first trimester. This is due to the increased levels of progesterone in their body.
#### Faintness/Dizziness
This is a common symptom caused by the developmental changes in the body’s circulatory system. It can be caused by the growing uterus pressing against the woman’s blood vessels, leading to decreased blood flow to the head.
#### Unusual Food Cravings
Food cravings can be a sign of pregnancy. Women can experience cravings for certain types of food and even for non-food items, such as dirt or chalk. Most cravings subside within the first trimester.
#### Sense of Smell
Pregnant women may become more sensitive to smells, or have a heightened sense of smell. This can be uncomfortable, as she may respond negatively to certain smells.
The surest way to know if you are pregnant is to take a pregnancy test. Home pregnancy tests measure the level of hCG, or human chorionic gonadotropin, in a woman’s urine. A positive result typically indicates that the woman is pregnant.
If you think you may be pregnant and are experiencing any of these symptoms, talk to your doctor or healthcare provider to confirm.
Welcome to my fertility blog. This is a space where I will be sharing my experiences as I navigate through the world of fertility treatments, as well as provide information and resources about fertility and pregnancy.
