The signs of being pregnant vary from woman to woman and many women find themselves asking 'could I be pregnant' because the first signs of pregnancy are so varied. No two women will exhibit the same pregnant symptoms and some women can actually pass into the second trimester before any symptoms present themselves. That said, most will have an inkling within a matter of weeks – usually, missing a period is one of the first signs.

However, unless your menstrual cycle is as regular as clockwork, it can sometimes be a little tricky trying to work out if you’re pregnant – unless of course you just go right ahead and take a pregnancy test.

Signs Of Being Pregnant

Swollen Breasts

As signs of being pregnant go, this in itself doesn't indicate pregnancy. Some women suffer from swollen/tender breasts during their menstrual cycle. However, if several other symptoms present at or around the same time, swollen breasts can be classed as an early pregnancy sign. The condition is caused by increased levels of hormones surging through your body, though it can settle down once the second trimester starts.

Fatigue/tiredness

For many women, fatigue can be one of the sure pregnancy signs. A sudden onset of tiredness for no apparent reason can be a strong indication that you’re pregnant. This, for me, was a big problem with my fourth pregnancy. Within a matter of weeks, I was persistently tired. Unfortunately this continued throughout my pregnancy but some women find that it dissipates as their pregnancy progresses.

Missed Period

One of the more common and definitive pregnancy symptoms, especially for women that have been trying to become pregnant. However, it’s not an absolute – there are other reasons for a blip in our menstrual cycle so it’s advisable to take a pregnancy test. That said, if your cycle is rhythmic, and you’re in tune with your cycle, the possibility of pregnancy being the cause for a missed period is probably high.

Morning Sickness

A huge indicator of pregnancy. Often viewed as a ghastly side effect of being pregnant and for many women, this symptom can present almost immediately. Further, the sickness is not strictly related to mornings and is therefore quite misleading.

Some feel sick in the evenings, for others it can be a recurring wave throughout the day. Added to that, some only experience nausea, as opposed to vomiting. In any case, both can become extremely unpleasant.

Cravings

Although this is one of the more common signs of being pregnant, it’s not advisable to rely on this alone. This symptom is best measured alongside others symptoms, such as fatigue and swollen breasts (for e.g.). Also, cravings don’t always present during the first few weeks. I had cravings with each one of my pregnancies but only one of them started within a few days of being pregnant.

Urinating Frequently

Again, not a sign of being pregnant in itself but if you’re also suffering nausea and fatigue for example, this could be another precursor. In part it’s caused by progesterone, a pregnancy hormone, stimulating the bladder and partly it’s due to the increased pressure that your bladder suffers as your pregnancy progresses. For some, this symptom can present within a matter of weeks.

Pregnancy Test

If in doubt, have one. A pregnancy test is a sure fire way to find out one way or another. They are very simple to use and easy to understand. The test is done by testing the HCG levels in your urine and they are pretty accurate. If you’ve taken a home pregnancy test and it indicates that you’re pregnant, the next step is to book an appointment with your doctor. They are the professionals after all and it’s always advisable that you have your pregnancy confirmed by a medical professional.

Other Signs Of Being Pregnant

There are various other signs of being pregnant, though less common:

• Changes in taste/smell
• Appetite increase
• Appetite decrease
• Feeling lightheaded
• Backaches
• Headaches
• Constipation
• Emotional/ mood swings

If you do believe you may be pregnant, or you’re unsure, the easiest way to confirm your condition is to have a pregnancy test. So if in doubt, do consult your doctor. They are the people to whom you should turn and of course they are the experts regarding the signs of being pregnant.

Signs Of Being Pregnant - Rounded Up

In short, the more common early symptoms of pregnancy rounded up are:

• Cravings
• Fatigue
• Swollen breasts
• Missed period
• Morning sickness
• Frequent urination

As stated previously, if one, all or several of the above symptoms of pregnancy do present – there’s a chance you may be pregnant. However, our bodies aren’t an exact science (unfortunately!) so don’t simply read the list and think “I’m pregnant”.

They’re only indicators, possibly pointing towards pregnancy. So hold the ‘phone calls until you know for sure!

It’s important that you care of yourself - and your health and wellbeing - as being pregnant is a wonderful experience. It’s also far more enjoyable when you have an understanding of what to expect, as well as the correct support. So, if you are pregnant - or you're presenting with some signs of being pregnant - make sure that you connect with those in the 'know', whether that be friends and/or family, and of course your soon to be midwife and doctor.

That way you can inform and consequently arm yourself with the knowledge of what's to come, which is better for you and - better for baby. Good luck for the next nine months ... you've a wonderful journey ahead!