Pregnancy Symptoms: What Are They? When Do They Start?
The changing hormones that occur with pregnancy lead to the appearance of pregnancy symptoms. These symptoms can occur in different ways and at different times in each woman. However, some symptoms are more commonly seen than others and are signs for women to get a pregnancy test.
Pregnancy Symptoms:
The hormonal changes that occur during pregnancy are the main cause of developing symptoms. These symptoms can vary from woman to woman. However, most people experience symptoms such as cramping, nausea, vomiting, headaches, constipation, and depression during pregnancy. The symptoms of pregnancy include:
- Delay in menstruation: The first sign of pregnancy that usually occurs is a delay in menstruation. Some women completely stop menstruating, while others may experience light bleeding.
- Morning sickness: Nausea and vomiting, especially in the mornings, are among the symptoms of pregnancy. Often, strong odors can trigger this nausea. Nausea is a common symptom of pregnancy during the first three months and often disappears as the pregnancy progresses.
- Changes in breast structure: During pregnancy, milk formation begins in the mother's breasts to meet the baby's needs after birth. Therefore, breast enlargement may occur. In addition to milk formation, changes such as sensitivity in the breasts and a more prominent appearance of the nipple due to changing hormones may also occur.
- Fatigue: Excessive fatigue is a symptom that begins to occur early in pregnancy. An increase in the hormone progesterone during pregnancy can slow down metabolism and increase fatigue. The feeling of fatigue is often less pronounced after the first 4 months of pregnancy. Another reason for fatigue is the increased iron requirement of the body during pregnancy. Women who do not get enough iron support may develop anemia, which can cause fatigue.
- Increased urination: The increased fluid volume during pregnancy and the pressure exerted by the baby on the bladder can increase the need to urinate. Frequent urination in the early weeks of pregnancy is a common symptom in many pregnant women.
- Back pain: Back pain is one of the symptoms of pregnancy. Changes in posture and increased weight due to the developing baby in the womb can cause back pain.
- Shortness of breath: The increased progesterone hormone during pregnancy can increase lung capacity to increase oxygen to the baby. Therefore, the amount of air increases with each breath, and the person may perceive this condition as shortness of breath.
- Constipation: Changes in hormones and increased pressure on the intestines during pregnancy can slow down the digestive system. Pregnancy period dietary changes such as drinking plenty of water, increasing dietary fiber, and engaging in non-strenuous physical activities can help prevent constipation.
- Headache: Headache is an early symptom of pregnancy but can also occur in the second half of pregnancy.
- Mood swings: Various changes in mood due to pregnancy hormones can be considered normal. Mood swings are more pronounced especially in the first 3 months.
- Vaginal discharge: Changes in vaginal fluids can be observed during pregnancy. Symptoms such as increased discharge, bad odor, and pain during urination may develop. However, when these symptoms develop, it is necessary to seek support from a physician. These symptoms may indicate the development of a vaginal infection. Additionally, this discharge may occur in the form of spotting.
When Do Pregnancy Symptoms Start?
Pregnancy symptoms occur in the 2-3 weeks following sexual intercourse. Symptoms may begin to appear within the first week after conception.
Some women may start experiencing symptoms within a few days after becoming pregnant, while others may not show symptoms until days after pregnancy is diagnosed. Pregnancy symptoms vary from person to person and even between pregnancies. Early pregnancy symptoms can develop similarly to menstrual symptoms for many women. However, many women may stop menstruating during this period.
Week-by-Week Pregnancy Symptoms
Pregnancy symptoms can vary by week of pregnancy. Pregnancy typically lasts for an average of 40 weeks. This period may be shorter or longer, and interventions can be made
when there is a risk of it being prolonged. Week-by-week pregnancy symptoms are listed below.
4th Week
- Spotting
- Cramping
- Breast sensitivity
- Mood swings
- Lower abdominal pain
- Vaginal discharge
- Increase in body temperature
- Implantation bleeding (spotting)
- Changes in taste and smell sensitivity
- Fatigue
- Constipation
- Bloating
5-8th Week
- Mood swings
- Fatigue
- Morning sickness
- Breast sensitivity
- Nausea
- Strong cravings for certain foods
- Increased sensitivity to smell
- Frequent urination
- Bloating
- Headaches
9-12th Week
- Constipation
- Bloating
- Acne
- Noticeable growth in breasts and abdomen
- Pain and cramping around the abdomen
- Clear vaginal discharge
- Increased visibility of veins
13-16 Weeks
- Dizziness
- Increased appetite
- Nasal congestion
- Leg cramps
- Darkening of nipple color
17-20 Weeks
- Back pain
- Forgetfulness
- Acceleration in weight gain
- Increase in breast milk production
- Heartburn
- Constipation
- Leg cramps
- Feeling baby movements
- Sleep disturbances
21-24 Weeks
- Breast milk leakage
- Feeling of mild contractions
- Skin dryness
- Protrusion of the belly button
- Back and leg pain
- Headaches
- Increased vaginal discharge
- Fatigue
- Tingling sensation in hands Snoring
25-28 Weeks
- Increase in blood pressure
- Increase in sleep disturbances
- Leg cramps
- Itching
- Hemorrhoids
29-40 Weeks
- Fatigue
- Breast milk leakage
- Increase in blood pressure
- Swelling
These symptoms can vary from person to person, and besides those listed above, different bodily changes may also occur. If any unexpected symptoms arise, it's important to contact a healthcare professional.
What Are Early Pregnancy Symptoms?
The most common pre-pregnancy symptoms include a missed period, nausea, vomiting, and increased urination. Since fertilization may not have occurred during this time, these symptoms may not always indicate pregnancy. Early pregnancy symptoms include:
- Delayed menstruation
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Breast tenderness
- Breast enlargement
- Mood swings
- Increased desire for certain foods (cravings)
- Sensitivity to smells
What Are the First Signs of Pregnancy?
In women of reproductive age, a regular menstrual cycle occurs. A delay of more than a week in this cycle is generally due to pregnancy. Along with this delay, symptoms such as dizziness, nausea, and breast tenderness may begin to occur. This period can be confused with premenstrual symptoms. When this delay lasts for more than 1 week, the reason for the delay can be determined through a doctor's examination.
What Should Be Considered in the First Week of Pregnancy?
The first week of pregnancy may coincide with the early weeks of a normal menstrual period. Most women do not know they are pregnant in the first week of pregnancy. However, if there is suspicion of pregnancy, making some lifestyle changes can be beneficial in the later stages. One of the most important points during this period is starting necessary supplements. Especially supplements such as folic acid, vitamin D, and iron are recommended by doctors to be used during pregnancy. Information should be obtained from the doctor about which supplements should be started from the first week onwards under doctor's control. Since pregnancy has begun, it is also very important for the mother to avoid stress, smoking, and alcohol for the health of the baby from the very beginning.
How Is Pregnancy Calculated?
In women with regular menstrual cycles, the last day of the menstrual period before pregnancy is considered the first day of pregnancy. It is assumed that childbirth will occur approximately 40 weeks from this date. However, this calculation provides an estimated time. The exact week of pregnancy is determined most accurately by the doctor. The week determined by ultrasound imaging is taken into consideration along with the menstrual period.
Can Pregnancy Symptoms Be Misleading?
Pregnancy symptoms can sometimes be misleading because they can resemble premenstrual symptoms. Additionally, symptoms do not always indicate pregnancy; stress or other health conditions can also cause similar symptoms.
Frequently Asked Questions About Pregnancy Symptoms
What are the symptoms of pregnancy in 3 days?
It is early to observe symptoms in the first days of pregnancy. However, if symptoms are present, they may manifest as nausea, dizziness, and breast tenderness.
What are the symptoms of pregnancy in 7 days?
The pregnancy symptoms that may appear in the first week of pregnancy are usually similar to premenstrual symptoms such as spotting, cramps in the lower abdomen, and headaches.
What are some strange pregnancy symptoms?
While pregnancy symptoms are experienced similarly by most women, some may experience rare symptoms. Strange pregnancy symptoms include:
- Nosebleeds
- Acne
- Nasal congestion
- Gum bleeding
- Dry mouth
- Brittle nails
What are the most common pregnancy symptoms?
The most common pregnancy symptoms include:
- Delayed menstruation
- Weight gain
- Headaches
- Breast tenderness
- Nausea
- Dizziness
- Fatigue
- Morning sickness
What are the symptoms of pregnancy at 15 days?
During this period, symptoms start to become more pronounced. Cramps may occur in the pelvic area, and vaginal discharge may be observed. Additionally, there may be an increased sensitivity to smells.
What are 100% pregnancy symptoms?
Pregnancy symptoms vary from person to person, and not all women experience the same symptoms. Therefore, we cannot make a definitive list of 100% pregnancy symptoms. However, common symptoms associated with pregnancy include delayed menstruation, morning nausea, breast tenderness and enlargement, fatigue, frequent urination, sensitivity to smells, heartburn and indigestion, headaches and dizziness, and back pain. These symptoms may appear in the early stages of pregnancy but can vary in severity and frequency for each woman.
* Contents of this page is for informational purposes only. Please consult your doctor for diagnosis and treatment. The content of this page does not include information on medicinal health care at Liv Hospital .
