Moms, have you ever felt small changes in your body but weren't sure what caused them? It could be early signs of pregnancy! According to the Mayo Clinic, many women don't realize they are pregnant until several weeks after conception because the early symptoms can be very subtle and similar to PMS symptoms.
To help moms be more aware of changes in their bodies, let's take a look at the following 10 early signs of pregnancy that are often overlooked.
Early Pregnancy Signs You Might Not Notice
1. Missed Period
A missed period is the most common sign of pregnancy. However, according to the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG), not all women have regular menstrual cycles. As a result, some women often overlook a delayed period. If you’ve missed your period by more than a week, it’s advisable to take a pregnancy test right away.
2. Increased Body Temperature
An increase in basal body temperature (BBT) upon waking up can be an early sign of pregnancy. This is influenced by the hormone progesterone after ovulation. If your body temperature remains high for more than 18 days after ovulation, there is a high likelihood that you are pregnant.
3. Breast Pain and Changes
Pregnancy triggers hormonal changes that affect the breasts. According to the journal Breast Disease (2020), a pregnant woman's breasts may enlarge, become more sensitive, and the nipples may change color. Pain or discomfort in this area can be an early sign that is often overlooked.
4. Nausea and Vomiting
Morning sickness is a classic symptom of pregnancy, typically occurring between weeks 4 and 8. Increased levels of estrogen and hCG from the placenta are the primary causes. Despite being called morning sickness, nausea can occur at any time, not just in the morning.
5. Easily Fatigued
If you feel tired quickly even though you haven't been very active, it could be a sign of early pregnancy. This is due to increased progesterone levels, which affect the body’s metabolism. According to the Cleveland Clinic, fatigue is typically most intense during the first trimester.
6. Frequent Urination
As the uterus expands, it can press on the bladder, causing you to urinate more frequently. This symptom usually begins in the first trimester. If accompanied by excessive thirst, remember to stay hydrated by drinking enough water.
7. Constipation
The increase in progesterone not only makes moms feel sleepy but also slows down bowel movements. As a result, constipation often appears as a sign of early pregnancy. According to the journal Gastroenterology Clinics (2019), constipation in pregnant women is quite common and can be managed by increasing fiber intake.
8. Mild Abdominal Cramps
Abdominal cramps are often considered a sign of menstruation, but they can also be a sign of early pregnancy. The difference is that these cramps are often accompanied by light spotting or bloating. If you experience these symptoms, don't rush to assume it's just PMS.
9. Increased Vaginal Discharge
Increased vaginal discharge can also be a sign of pregnancy. This occurs because the body produces more cervical mucus to prevent infection in the fetus. Normal vaginal discharge is usually white, odorless, and does not cause itching.
10. Sensitivity to Smells
Suddenly dislike the smell of your favorite perfume? You may be pregnant. According to the Journal of Perinatal Medicine (2017), pregnant women experience increased sensitivity in their sense of smell. This change is the body's natural response to protect the fetus from exposure to harmful substances.
When Should You See a Doctor?
You may be wondering when is the right time to see a doctor after experiencing early pregnancy symptoms. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), pregnancy checkups should ideally be done as soon as possible once you suspect you are pregnant, especially after a pregnancy test shows a positive result.
The following conditions are also strong reasons to consult a doctor or midwife immediately:
- Missing your period for more than two weeks but the pregnancy test result is unclear.
- Excessive nausea and vomiting to the point of difficulty eating or drinking (hyperemesis gravidarum).
- Spotting or recurrent bleeding accompanied by severe abdominal pain.
- Severe headaches, dizziness, or blurred vision in early pregnancy.
- History of certain medical conditions, such as diabetes, hypertension, or thyroid disorders.
By getting checked early, a doctor can help ensure a healthy pregnancy, provide nutritional advice, and detect any issues early on. Moms will also be better prepared to plan for pregnancy care through to childbirth.
Recommended Diapers for Babies
When moms are preparing to become parents, the comfort of their little ones is a top priority. One important necessity is a safe, thin, and comfortable baby diaper.
MAKUKU Slim is a recommended premium diaper for babies and toddlers. With a thin and soft design, MAKUKU Slim provides extra comfort for sensitive baby skin. Some of its key features include:
- A thin, anti-clumping structure that allows babies to move freely.
- Quick and even absorption to keep the skin dry.
- Premium soft materials that minimize the risk of irritation.
- Good air circulation to prevent babies from feeling stuffy.
By choosing high-quality diapers like MAKUKU Slim, moms can feel more at ease caring for their babies, especially during the early stages of infancy when extra attention is crucial.
Early pregnancy symptoms can vary widely, from missed periods, breast tenderness, to sensitivity to smells. According to medical research, these changes are primarily triggered by surges in progesterone, estrogen, and hCG hormones. Recognizing symptoms early helps moms prepare for pregnancy more effectively.
And once the little one arrives, don’t forget to prepare essential items like premium baby diapers like MAKUKU Slim, which have proven to provide extra comfort for babies and toddlers.
