Physical Signs of Pregnancy

The physical signs of pregnancy are changes that a woman will experience from the time of conception right up to the time of delivery. If you experience more than one of these symptoms, in all likelihood, you could be pregnant. A word of advice, by incorporating some preconception tips, you can increase your chances of getting pregnant. While a pregnancy test will give you a firm answer, if you are trying to read the signs, these are some of them:

Missed Period
One of the most obvious early signs of pregnancy is a missed period. When the egg is released from the ovary, the follicle from which the egg (now called corpus luteum) is released, begins to secrete the hormones progesterone and estrogen. If the egg is fertilized, the corpus luteum continues a steady supply of progesterone which causes the endometrium (lining of the uterus) to thicken. However, if one does not conceive, this lining is shed, resulting in menstruation. Thus, if is not shed, there is a possibility of pregnancy. One is also cautioned against mistaking spotting in early pregnancy for a period. At times, however, hormonal problems or excessive weight loss or gain can also cause one to skip their period. Read more on Reasons for a Missed Period.

Nausea and Vomiting
For many women, nausea and vomiting (termed morning sickness) is often among the first physical signs of pregnancy. On an average, women can start experiencing it any time between 2 to 8 weeks after conception. However, some lucky women may not experience it at all. Also, don't be fooled by the term 'morning sickness', for the wave of nausea followed by the consequent vomiting can hit you at any time of the day or night. Read more on Signs of Morning Sickness: Pregnancy Nausea Remedies.

Breast Changes
Another change that women will experience once pregnant is changes in their breast tissue. As your breasts get ready for breastfeeding, one might experience many different changes. Soreness in the breasts is a common complaint, especially in the first trimester. This soreness may be experienced on touching or while wearing a bra. You will also find that your breasts will begin to grow, in preparation for nursing. This may be experienced towards the end of the first trimester or at the onset of the second trimester. Another change that is not a cause for worry is the enlarging and darkening of the nipples. One may also develop small bumps on the areola.

Cramping
Many women experience uterine cramping during the early stages of their pregnancy. While this can send any woman into a state of panic, the cause can be your uterus growing. Experiencing it is part and parcel of a healthy pregnancy along with feelings of fullness or heaviness in the uterine area. However, if the cramping is accompanied by one sided pain, one must also rule out the possibility of an ectopic pregnancy or cyst. Read more on Cramping in Early Pregnancy.

Frequent Urination
Among the physical signs of pregnancy, the need to urinate frequently is experienced by all pregnant women. For some this feeling may begin early in the pregnancy and carry on through the third trimester. During the initial period of a woman's pregnancy, the increased blood and fluid used will trigger this need to pee often. However, in the later stages, it will be the pressure the baby puts on your bladder that will create this need.

Other physical signs of pregnancy that women experience include craving for certain food items, backaches, changes in sex drive and fatigue. Pregnancy is supposed to be a joyful time and finding ways to cope with these changes can help a woman have a smooth pregnancy.