It doesn’t matter if you’re in your late teens or your early forties, early signs of pregnancy can be confusing because they sometimes mirror symptoms of PMS or the stomach flu. While a pregnancy test is the most reliable method of determining whether or not you’re expecting, knowing other early-warning signs is important.
Having a good relationship with your body and being aware of its rhythms is integral to knowing when something is changing, allowing you to seek medical treatment when necessary.
Morning Sickness and Nausea
Some women certainly experience the wake-and-vomit type of morning sickness commonly used on television to foreshadow a pregnancy, but others may experience a more mild sense of nausea that can be blamed on last night’s dinner or a coworker’s strong cologne.
If you are feeling queasy on the bus ride to work or breakfast is suddenly not appetizing, make a note of it. If it happens again, take a test. Also note nausea at other times of the day, as some newly pregnant women have queasiness throughout the day or even just at night.
Breast Tenderness
This is a symptom that’s quite easy to blame on an impending period, but the soreness of pregnancy is not always the same as soreness associated with PMS. During early pregnancy, some women note an overall soreness, to the point that even putting on a bra is difficult.
Others note a distinct darkening of their nipples and areolas, accompanied by sensitivity and discomfort. If breast tenderness doesn’t subside within a few days, take a test.
Breast soreness associated with PMS usually goes away within three or four days, while tenderness caused by pregnancy may linger for weeks.
A Late Period
If your cycle is unreliable, this symptom may not even cross your mind as worthy of concern, but a late period isn’t something to ignore. Even if you aren’t pregnant, a late period can point to an ovarian cyst, uterine polyp or other gynecological issue. Keep careful track of your periods and take a test if you’re more than a few days late.
Schedule an Appointment
Early pregnancy symptoms can be tricky simply because they can be easy to blame on PMS or a stomach bug. If you believe you may be pregnant and want professional guidance, contact South Lake Obstetrics and Gynecology today to schedule an appointment.
Our office is located in Clermont, FL. We welcome the opportunity to assist you.