Discover the 10 Most Common Pregnancy Symptoms

Did you know that when a woman is pregnant, her body starts to show signs that a baby is on the way?

Well, these are the symptoms of pregnancy. In the first few weeks of pregnancy, these symptoms gradually appear due to the physical and hormonal changes that are happening in a woman’s body.

So, if you’re feeling different and want to clear up your doubts, you’ve come to the right place!

In this article, we’ll explore the 10 most common pregnancy symptoms that could be giving you clues as to what’s going on inside your body. Ready to uncover these signs? Let’s start!

1 – Irregular Menstrual Cycle

As you can see, I started the list with one of the most “classic” pregnancy symptoms, so to speak. It only takes a few days of delay, especially if the menstrual cycle is regular, for “our alarms” to start beeping.

The absence of menstruation occurs because the fertilized egg implants in the lining of the uterus, and the body begins to produce hormones that keep this lining intact, preventing menstruation from occurring. This is one of the earliest and most reliable signs of pregnancy.

In addition to the implantation of the fertilized egg, the corpus luteum, which is what remains of the ovarian follicle after the egg is released, begins to produce progesterone in larger quantities. Progesterone is essential to maintain the endometrium, the uterine lining, in suitable conditions for pregnancy.

It prevents the endometrium from breaking down, which would cause menstruation.

It’s important to note that a delayed period doesn’t always mean pregnancy. Factors such as stress, changes in routine, health problems, and hormonal changes can cause irregularities in the menstrual cycle. If you are trying to get pregnant, it is advisable to take a pregnancy test and consult a doctor to confirm the diagnosis.

2 – Nausea and Vomiting

Nausea and vomiting are common pregnancy symptoms, which occur due to hormonal changes, mainly due to increased levels of hCG and estrogen.

These uncomfortable symptoms usually begin in the first few weeks and can persist until the end of the first trimester, but tend to decrease throughout pregnancy. And believe me, there are women who don’t feel any of this during pregnancy. Lucky, right?

The intensity of nausea and vomiting varies from woman to woman. Some women may only feel a slight morning sickness, while others may have frequent and intense vomiting throughout the day. This condition, known as hyperemesis gravidarum, can lead to dehydration and weight loss, requiring medical treatment.

There are some tips that can help relieve nausea and vomiting during pregnancy. Eating small meals frequently, avoiding fatty and spicy foods, consuming ginger, and taking vitamin B6 are some measures that can be effective. In more severe cases, the doctor may prescribe antiemetic medications to control the symptoms.

It’s important to remember that nausea and vomiting in pregnancy are generally harmless to the baby unless the woman is losing a lot of weight or showing signs of dehydration. In any case, it is essential to seek medical advice to ensure the health of both mother and baby.

3 – Drowsiness and Tiredness

Generally, during the first trimester of pregnancy, these pregnancy symptoms are quite common. In large part, this is due to the hormonal changes that are occurring in a woman’s body.

In addition, several physical adaptations are also taking place to support the growth and development of the fetus. These metabolic and physical changes can require more energy from the body, contributing to feelings of tiredness and fatigue. So, if you’re feeling this, there’s no need to worry!

Increased drowsiness and fatigue during pregnancy are related to increased levels of progesterone, a hormone that has a sedative effect. In addition, the woman’s body is working intensely to produce blood and nutrients for the baby, which can cause fatigue.

To cope with drowsiness and fatigue during pregnancy, it is important to get enough rest, sleep well at night, and take naps during the day if possible. In addition, a balanced diet and light exercise can help increase energy levels.

It is essential that the pregnant woman listens to her body and respects her limits. If the fatigue is excessive or persistent, it is important to consult a doctor to rule out other possible causes, such as anemia or thyroid problems.

4 – Breast Sensitivity

Due to the increase in progesterone and estrogen levels, which are responsible for stimulating the growth of the mammary glands and the increase in blood flow in the region, this can result in more sensitive and swollen breasts.

It is worth highlighting that this sensitivity can vary from one woman to another and may be more intense in some cases.

Breast sensitivity is one of the earliest symptoms of pregnancy and can begin to occur soon after conception. The breasts may become sore, tender to the touch, and heavier. In addition, the areola, the area around the nipple, may darken and increase in size.

These changes in the breasts are caused by the increase in pregnancy hormones, which prepare the breasts for breastfeeding. Estrogen stimulates the growth of the milk ducts, while progesterone promotes the development of the alveoli, the structures responsible for milk production.

To relieve breast sensitivity during pregnancy, it is recommended to wear a comfortable support bra, avoid tight clothing, and apply cold or warm compresses to the breasts. In some cases, the doctor may recommend the use of mild analgesics to relieve pain.

5 – Increased Urinary Frequency

Among the most common pregnancy symptoms, this one can appear especially at the beginning of pregnancy. This occurs due to the increase in blood volume and the expansion of the uterus, which puts pressure on the bladder.

Also, as the uterus expands to accommodate the baby’s growth, it puts additional pressure on the bladder, causing the woman to feel a greater need to urinate more frequently.

The increased urinary frequency during pregnancy is caused by several factors. In addition to the increased blood volume and pressure from the uterus on the bladder, the kidneys also work harder to filter the mother’s and baby’s blood, producing more urine.

To cope with increased urinary frequency during pregnancy, it is important to avoid consuming diuretic beverages, such as coffee and tea, and empty the bladder completely when urinating. In addition, it is recommended to avoid drinking liquids before bed to reduce the need to urinate during the night.

It is important to be aware of other symptoms that may accompany increased urinary frequency, such as pain when urinating, fever, and blood in the urine. These symptoms may indicate a urinary tract infection, which needs to be treated with antibiotics.

6 – Morning Sickness

Even though its name indicates that it occurs in the morning, it can appear at any time of the day. Studies indicate that most pregnant women experience this symptom due to increased levels of hCG and estrogen hormones.

Likewise, other factors such as sensitivity to odors, changes in the functioning of the gastrointestinal system, and increased stress can contribute to this happening.

Morning sickness, also known as pregnancy nausea, is one of the most common symptoms of pregnancy. Although it is called “morning” sickness, it can occur at any time of the day or night. Morning sickness is believed to be caused by a combination of factors, including hormonal changes, increased sensitivity to odors, and changes in the digestive system.

To relieve morning sickness, it is recommended to eat small meals frequently, avoid fatty and spicy foods, consume ginger, and take vitamin B6. In addition, it is important to get enough rest and avoid stressful situations.

In some cases, morning sickness can be so intense that it prevents a woman from eating and hydrating adequately. In these cases, it is important to seek medical help to avoid complications such as dehydration and weight loss.

7 – Mood Swings

During pregnancy, it is common to observe emotional changes, which are the result of hormonal variables, stress, and the prospect of the baby’s arrival. A woman can experience moments of extreme happiness and then, in the next instant, feel anxious, melancholy, or irritated.

These sudden changes can be challenging not only for the woman but also for those around her.

Mood swings during pregnancy are caused by the hormonal fluctuations that occur in a woman’s body. The increase in estrogen and progesterone levels can affect mood, causing irritability, anxiety, sadness, and easy crying.

In addition to hormonal changes, other factors can contribute to mood swings during pregnancy, such as stress, fatigue, worries about the future, and changes in body image. It is important for the pregnant woman to have emotional support and seek professional help if she is feeling overwhelmed.

To cope with mood swings during pregnancy, it is recommended to practice relaxing activities, such as yoga, meditation, and massage. In addition, it is important to sleep well, eat a healthy diet, and avoid stressful situations.

8 – Increased Sensitivity to Smells

Hormonal changes can sharpen a woman’s sense of smell, making her notice odors that normally wouldn’t bother her and that can now become more intense than usual.

Increased sensitivity to smells is a common symptom of pregnancy that can cause nausea and vomiting. Some smells, such as coffee, perfume, and cigarettes, can become unbearable for the pregnant woman.

It is believed that the increased sensitivity to smells during pregnancy is caused by the hormonal changes that affect the olfactory system. In addition, pregnancy can also increase taste sensitivity, making some foods repulsive.

To cope with increased sensitivity to smells during pregnancy, it is recommended to avoid environments with strong odors and use unscented personal care products. In addition, it is important to ventilate the house well and cook in airy places.

9 – Changes in Appetite

It’s truly amazing how each woman can experience pregnancy symptoms differently. While some women may feel ravenously hungry, others lose their appetite completely.

These changes are mainly attributed to hormonal fluctuations that occur during pregnancy, particularly due to increased levels of hormones such as hCG and estrogen.

Changes in appetite are common during pregnancy. Some women experience an increased appetite and crave specific foods, while others lose their appetite and feel nauseous when seeing or smelling certain foods.

These changes in appetite are caused by hormonal fluctuations that affect the appetite control center in the brain. In addition, pregnancy can also increase taste sensitivity, making some foods more attractive or repulsive.

To cope with changes in appetite during pregnancy, it is important to have a healthy and balanced diet, rich in essential nutrients for the mother and baby. It is recommended to eat small meals frequently to avoid excessive hunger and nausea.

10 – Dizziness or Vertigo

When it comes to pregnancy symptoms, dizziness or vertigo are not mentioned as much as others, although they are quite common during gestation. They can occur when standing up quickly or standing for long periods.

They can occur due to changes in blood pressure, increased blood flow, and hormonal changes. To avoid such episodes, it is advisable to avoid standing for a long time, make slow movements when getting up, and ensure good hydration.

Dizziness and vertigo during pregnancy are caused by a combination of factors, including hormonal changes, increased blood volume, and pressure from the uterus on blood vessels. Increased progesterone levels can relax blood vessels, causing a decrease in blood pressure and dizziness.

To cope with dizziness and vertigo during pregnancy, it is recommended to stand up slowly, avoid standing for long periods, stay hydrated, and eat small meals frequently. In addition, it is important to avoid hot and stuffy environments, which can increase the feeling of dizziness.

If dizziness and vertigo are frequent or intense, it is important to seek medical help to rule out other possible causes, such as anemia or heart problems.

Conclusion

It is essential to remember that, although these symptoms are indicative of a possible pregnancy, each woman is unique and may experience them differently. Additionally, some symptoms can be attributed to other medical conditions.

Therefore, if you are experiencing one or more of these pregnancy symptoms, it is essential that you seek medical advice. And remember, you are not alone on this wonderful and exciting journey!