What are the first pregnancy symptoms that typically appear?

Pregnancy symptoms can vary greatly from woman to woman, and even from pregnancy to pregnancy. Some women may start to notice changes right away, while others may not notice anything for weeks. Either way, some of the earliest signs and symptoms of pregnancy may include the following:

Missed period: This is often the most obvious sign of pregnancy, but for women who experience irregular periods, a late period may not be an obvious sign of pregnancy. 

Nausea and/or vomiting: Morning sickness, although it can happen at any time of day, can occur as early as a few weeks after conception. 

Breast changes: Tender, tingling or swollen breasts can be one of the first signs of pregnancy. 

Fatigue: Feeling more tired than usual is common in early pregnancy due to hormonal changes and increased demands on the body.

Frequent urination: This can start as early as six to eight weeks into the pregnancy due to hormonal changes and the increasing size of the uterus pressing on the bladder.

Food aversions or cravings: Changes in taste and smell can lead to aversions to certain foods or cravings for others.

Mood swings: Hormonal changes can also affect mood and emotions, leading to mood swings or heightened emotional sensitivity.

It’s important to note that these symptoms can also be attributed to other factors besides pregnancy, so experiencing one or more of these symptoms doesn’t necessarily mean you’re pregnant. The only way to confirm pregnancy is through a home pregnancy test or a visit to your family doctor for a blood test to confirm the pregnancy.