Whether it’s your first or your fifth time, being pregnant is a wonderful experience. Sometimes it can be difficult to tell whether you’re pregnant or not, and those first signs of pregnancy aren’t always obvious. You might have all or just some of the common pregnancy symptoms. Have a look at our guide below, and remember that the best way to be sure is to pick up a pregnancy test from the chemist or see your GP.
The first signs of pregnancy
Missing your period is one of the more obvious first signs of pregnancy, although you might still get a little bit of bleeding or a lighter flow. Other not so well known but common pregnancy symptoms include early pregnancy cramps, itchy skin, night sweats and headaches. It is a fantastic experience for most women, though, honest!
Here are a few more first symptoms of pregnancy:
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Missed period, it’s a clear sign you could be expecting.
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Needing to go to the loo a lot, especially if you’re getting up in the night to wee.
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Bigger boobs, your early pregnancy breasts might feel a bit tender in the same way they do before your period is due.
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Morning sickness. It can be yucky but should pass in time. It’s not just in the morning; you might feel sick during the day from around six weeks pregnant. If it gets really bad, speak to your GP.
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Weird food cravings. Pickle on chips, anyone? Bananas and mustard? You might crave really odd food, or you might get a metallic taste in your mouth. You might completely go off your usual favourites (here’s hoping chocolate is okay still!)
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Tiredness is a common symptom in the early stages of pregnancy, so don’t worry if you feel exhausted for the first 12 weeks. It’s just your hormones adjusting. You might feel a little more irritable, too; it’s all perfectly natural!
Once your pregnancy is confirmed by your GP, you can begin to look forward to the big day! (you can work out when that might be using our handy due date calculator here)
I’m pregnant – what happens now?
You’re going to be a mum, congratulations! If you have a partner, now’s the time to get them involved. You can make a booking appointment with your midwife to discuss your antenatal care.
Try to eat a well balanced diet and drink lots of water. It is recommended to take 400mg of folic acid every day until week 12, which can help to reduce the risk of problems in your babies development in the early weeks of pregnancy. It is also recommended to take 10mg of vitamin D every day throughout pregnancy, but especially between March and September. Smoking and drinking are obviously bad for your baby and you should try and stop as soon as possible, speak with your midwife or GP for support.
You don’t have to give up exercise though, in fact, in moderation, it’s great for pregnant mums.
And finally, try and get lots of rest and sleep even in early pregnancy. You’ll need lots of energy once your little one has arrived!
