So you have either been trying to have a baby and are excited, or you have recently had unprotected sex and you are now worried. The symptoms of being pregnant are not the same for everyone; some lucky ladies can go through all nine months with very little problems, while others can spend months in hospital.

So apart from paying money out for a test, or going the doctors how do you recognize the symptoms of being pregnant?

- No menstruation is usually one of the most common signs, although a few women will still have one, while others just receive the odd spots. More than likely if you do menstruate it will be different from normal, shorter and lighter. Remember though, if you have recently come off the pill these maybe normal symptoms of withdrawal.

- As soon as you become pregnant your hormones will change and this can result in a change in your breasts within the first few days. They may only be subtle but if you know your own body well you will notice this change. They may feel larger, or tenderer.

- Probably the most well known of all symptoms of being pregnant is feeling sick, and in some cased, physically throwing up. Often referred to as ‘morning sickness’ you will be sad to know that if you do get it, you can possibly be sick all day. Generally this happens between weeks 2-6, but can be longer for the unlucky few.

- Due to the hormone changes your areola may darken within a few days, and this will generally last throughout the time you are pregnant.

- Another symptom of hormone changes is that you may feel more sleepy. Some women may also suffer dizziness, but rarely fainting.

- Urinating frequently can also be a symptom of being pregnant. This is due to the physical changes within your body as your uterus moves up in your body and in turn can compress your bladder. This is normal so do not worry about it. You may also discover that this change may cause constipation.

- Food cravings. Why do women get this? Again, it is likely to be something to do with your hormones which change your tastes of certain foods which is why many pregnant women suddenly start eating lots of food they have never liked.

These days home pregnancy tests are not only affordable but very accurate, although you may want to do one test, and them another after 24 hours have passed.

If you want a definitive test you need to visit a medical centre to be checked for pregnancy. This test is 100% accurate so you will be certain whether you are pregnant or not.

Between 1-2 months an internal exam by a doctor can also verify pregnancy, and after that a scan can usually pick up the foetus.

If you do discover you are pregnant, I wish you all the best, and enjoy them while they are young, once they are teenagers you often wonder why you never considered adoption!