Have you noticed some changes in your body recently? Some women may suspect that they are pregnant before they take a test just by listening to their body. There are a number of signs and symptoms that can indicate a woman is pregnant, keeping in mind that every woman’s body is different and will experience a different range and levels of pregnancy symptoms. We’ve summarised some of the most common pregnancy signs and symptoms, and what to do if you suspect you are pregnant.
The five most common signs that you may be pregnant
- Missing your period
If you’ve noticed some changes in your regular monthly menstrual cycle, such as having a very light period, or you have missed a period, you may be pregnant. This is the most reliable and common sign of pregnancy, but it doesn’t always guarantee that you are. Other reasons for a missed period can include illness, stress, or strenuous activity - Nausea and vomiting
Most commonly referred to as ‘morning sickness,’ pregnancy can cause women to feel sick or vomit. It can happen at any time of the day or night, caused by changes in hormones. It should stop by the end of the first three months, but if you are suffering from severe or ongoing sickness, or experiencing accompanying symptoms such as pain, fever or diarrhea it is important to contact Dr Kothari as soon as possible. - Changes in your breasts
Just as they might do before a woman has her period, pregnancy can also make breasts feel sensitive or become larger. These changes can include feeling tender, a tingling sensation, or veins may become more visible and nipples may darken. - Feeling exhausted or changes in mood
Due to the hormonal changes in women, the early stages of pregnancy can leave women feeling very tired or exhausted, sometimes causing a change in mood. This is especially common during the first 12 weeks. - Urinary frequency
Increased urinary frequency is an early symptom of pregnancy in women. It’s caused by an increase of the hormones progesterone and human chorionic gonadotropin. Urinary frequency symptoms can also indicate an underlying urinary tract infection (UTI). As pregnant women are more likely to experience UTIs, it is important to be aware of any abnormal urinary symptoms such as cloudy or red urine, or a burning sensation or pain when urinating, and notify Dr Kothari as soon as possible to avoid more serious symptoms.
What to do if you think you’re pregnant?
If you are experiencing any of these signs and symptoms and believe you may be pregnant, it is important to get confirmation from Dr Kothari, and prepare for the journey ahead. You may wish to first use a home pregnancy test if you think you are pregnant. Urine tests can be purchased from chemists, or women can also have a test done at a hospital or family planning clinic.
You can also arrange for a blood test to confirm if you are pregnant. This is considered one of the most reliable tests, and can be done in the earliest stage of pregnancy right after you have missed your period. Dr Kothari may also do an internal examination to check for changes in your uterus and cervix, such as the colour and size of your uterus.
If your pregnancy is confirmed and you start to experience any pregnancy related symptoms that you are concerned about, it is important to seek medical attention as soon as possible.
Our patients can have confidence in Dr Kothari’s high level of care and assessment for each individual. He will take time to listen to your concerns and symptoms, and perform relevant tests to properly confirm your pregnancy status. Please contact our clinic on 02 4225 1999 learn about your options.