When conception first happens, your body is going through many delicate changes. The symptoms of pregnancy do not occur for a few weeks after the time of conception, even though the inside of your body is working overtime. There are some women, however, that can suspect they are pregnant within a week by really listening to their bodies. Here are four signs that could mean you are pregnant in the very early stage.
Breast Tenderness
About a week after conception, the breasts begin to feel differently. For many women, this is the first sign they notice they are pregnant. The breasts begin to feel “heavy”, especially when bending over. They also tingle, are sensitive to the touch, become a little larger, and become swollen. Nipple changes may occur, but usually don’t change much until later on the pregnancy.
Spotting or Bleeding
As the now-fertilized egg implants into the lining of the uterus, some blood may be noticed. This is considered one of the earliest signs of pregnancy as well, but not all women notice or even bleed at all. It is very light in color and can last a few days, along with some cramping (Wolfenden).
Fatigue
Once the hormones of pregnancy are produced by the implanted fertilized egg, you may begin to feel tired. The surges in hormonal activity can cause you to also feel differently as your blood production increases and your blood sugar drops. If you think you may be pregnant because of “unexplained” fatigue, take this as a sign to rest throughout the day, if possible.
Headaches
The increase in blood circulation and the surges in hormones can cause you to have more headaches than normal (Wolfenden). They may be more intense and longer lasting, and may start suddenly. It is important to drink a lot of water and avoid any medications just in case you may be pregnant. Resting and applying cold compresses to the head will help as well.
If you are trying to become pregnant and experience any of these very-early symptoms, chances are you may be. Taking a pregnancy test may not help confirm this; many pregnancy tests will read negative in this early stage. Go ahead and start taking care of yourself if you think you may be, though, so you can have a healthy first trimester and be prepared for the rest of your pregnancy.
Wolfenden, Elizabeth. “Signs of Pregnancy a Week After Conception.” LIVESTRONG.COM. LIVESTRONG.COM, 16 Aug. 2013. Web. 16 Jan. 2016. http://www.livestrong.com/article/78014-signs-pregnancy-week-after-conception/