Understanding Pregnancy Symptoms in English
Antenatal care ensures a healthy pregnancy through regular check-ups, tests, and expert guidance. Learn what to expect during visits, why ANC matters, and how to take care of yourself and your baby.
Written by Dr. Mohammed Kamran
Reviewed by Dr. Dhankecha Mayank Dineshbhai MBBS
Last updated on 11th Aug, 2025
Pregnancy is an exciting and life-changing journey, but it can also bring many physical and emotional changes. If you suspect you might be pregnant or are trying to conceive, recognising the early signs can help you take the right steps for a healthy pregnancy.
In this article, we’ll discuss common pregnancy symptoms, what causes them, and how to manage them. Remember, every woman’s experience is different, so you may not have all these symptoms—and that’s completely normal!
Early Signs of Pregnancy
Pregnancy symptoms can start as early as a week after conception, though some women may not notice changes until a few weeks later. Here are some of the most common early signs:
1. Missed Period
The most obvious sign of pregnancy is a missed menstrual period. However, some women may experience light spotting (implantation bleeding) around the time their period is due, which can be confusing.
2. Nausea and Morning Sickness
Nausea, with or without vomiting, is a classic pregnancy symptom. Despite the name, "morning sickness" can happen at any time of the day. It usually starts around the 6th week of pregnancy and may last until the second trimester.
3. Breast Changes
Your breasts may feel tender, swollen, or sore due to hormonal changes. The area around the nipples (areolas) might also darken.
4. Fatigue
Feeling unusually tired? Pregnancy hormones, especially progesterone, can make you feel exhausted, even in the early weeks.
5. Frequent Urination
You might notice yourself visiting the bathroom more often. This happens because your body increases blood flow to the kidneys, and your growing uterus puts pressure on the bladder.
6. Food Cravings or Aversions
Suddenly loving or hating certain foods? Hormonal changes can alter your sense of taste and smell, leading to strong cravings or sudden dislikes for foods you once enjoyed.
7. Mood Swings
Pregnancy hormones can cause emotional ups and downs. You might feel happy one moment and tearful the next—this is completely normal!
8. Bloating and Constipation
Progesterone slows digestion, which can lead to bloating and constipation. Drinking plenty of water and eating fibre-rich foods can help.
9. Mild Cramping and Spotting
Some women experience light cramping (similar to period cramps) and spotting when the fertilised egg attaches to the uterus. However, if the pain is severe or bleeding is heavy, consult a doctor.
10. Heightened Sense of Smell
Many pregnant women become extra sensitive to smells, which can sometimes trigger nausea.
When Do Pregnancy Symptoms Start?
- Week 1-4: You may not notice any symptoms yet.
- Week 4-6: Missed period, fatigue, nausea, and breast tenderness may begin.
- Week 6-8: Morning sickness, frequent urination, and mood swings may increase.
- Week 8-12: Symptoms like nausea and fatigue may peak before easing in the second trimester.
Remember, some women have very mild symptoms, while others experience them intensely. Both scenarios are normal.
How to Confirm Pregnancy
If you suspect you’re pregnant, here’s what you can do:
1. Home Pregnancy Test: These detect the pregnancy hormone (hCG) in urine. For best results, take the test a week after your missed period.
2. Blood Test: A doctor can confirm pregnancy through a blood test, which is more accurate and can detect pregnancy earlier.
3. Ultrasound: After a positive test, an ultrasound can confirm the pregnancy and check the baby’s development.
Consult Top Specialists
If you get a positive result, schedule a prenatal visit with your doctor to start proper care.
Managing Pregnancy Symptoms
While some discomfort is normal, these tips can help you feel better:
For Nausea & Morning Sickness
- Eat small, frequent meals.
- Avoid spicy or greasy foods.
- Try ginger tea or lemon water.
- Keep crackers by your bed to eat before getting up.
For Fatigue
- Rest as much as possible.
- Take short naps during the day.
- Stay hydrated and eat iron-rich foods (like spinach and lentils).
For Breast Tenderness
- Wear a supportive bra.
- Apply a warm or cold compress for relief.
For Mood Swings
- Practice relaxation techniques like deep breathing.
- Talk to a friend or partner about how you’re feeling.
- Gentle exercise (like walking or prenatal yoga) can help.
For Constipation
- Drink plenty of water.
- Eat fiber-rich foods (fruits, vegetables, whole grains).
- Light exercise can help digestion.
When to See a Doctor
While most pregnancy symptoms are normal, some signs need medical attention:
- Severe nausea/vomiting (unable to keep food down).
- Heavy bleeding or severe abdominal pain.
- Dizziness or fainting.
- High fever or chills.
If you experience any of these, contact your doctor immediately.
Conclusion
Pregnancy is a unique experience, and symptoms vary from woman to woman. If you think you might be pregnant, taking a test and consulting a doctor is the best next step. Early prenatal care ensures a healthier pregnancy for you and your baby.
If you need guidance or want to confirm your pregnancy, you can book a consultation or lab test through Apollo 24|7 for expert care from the comfort of your home.
Consult Top Specialists
Consult Top Specialists
Dr. Asha Rani Singh
Obstetrician and Gynaecologist
24 Years • MBBS DGO
Delhi
Dr Asha Rani Singh Clinic, Delhi
Dr. Sanjan Das
Obstetrician and Gynaecologist
15 Years • MBBS,MS
Bengaluru
Apollo Clinic, Sarjapur Road, Bengaluru
Dr. Parul Sharma
Obstetrician and Gynaecologist
8 Years • MBBS, MS (Obstetrics & Gynaecology)
New Delhi
THE DOCTORS NESST, New Delhi
Dr. Rituparna De
Obstetrician and Gynaecologist
6 Years • MBBS, MS (Obstetrics & Gynaecology)
Kolkata
MCR SUPER SPECIALITY POLY CLINIC & PATHOLOGY, Kolkata
Dr. Sangeetha M
Obstetrician and Gynaecologist
20 Years • MBBS,Dipolma in Obstetrics & Gynaecology
Bansdroni
Siddhita Healthcare., Bansdroni
Consult Top Specialists
Dr. Asha Rani Singh
Obstetrician and Gynaecologist
24 Years • MBBS DGO
Delhi
Dr Asha Rani Singh Clinic, Delhi
Dr. Sanjan Das
Obstetrician and Gynaecologist
15 Years • MBBS,MS
Bengaluru
Apollo Clinic, Sarjapur Road, Bengaluru
Dr. Parul Sharma
Obstetrician and Gynaecologist
8 Years • MBBS, MS (Obstetrics & Gynaecology)
New Delhi
THE DOCTORS NESST, New Delhi
Dr. Rituparna De
Obstetrician and Gynaecologist
6 Years • MBBS, MS (Obstetrics & Gynaecology)
Kolkata
MCR SUPER SPECIALITY POLY CLINIC & PATHOLOGY, Kolkata
Dr. Sangeetha M
Obstetrician and Gynaecologist
20 Years • MBBS,Dipolma in Obstetrics & Gynaecology
Bansdroni
Siddhita Healthcare., Bansdroni
