The main way to tell if you are pregnant is a missed period, especially if your menstrual cycle is normally regular. Early signs can include nausea or morning sickness (which can happen any time of day), breast tenderness and enlargement, fatigue, frequent urination, food cravings or aversions, mood changes, and sometimes light spotting called implantation bleeding within 1-2 weeks after conception. These symptoms vary from person to person, and some may experience few or no symptoms. Taking a home pregnancy test after a missed period is the most reliable way to confirm pregnancy, and this can be followed up with a test by a doctor. If the test is positive, prenatal care should begin as soon as possible for a healthy pregnancy.
Key early signs of pregnancy:
- Missed period or lighter than usual period
- Nausea and vomiting (morning sickness)
- Tender, swollen, or enlarged breasts
- Fatigue and tiredness
- Frequent urination, especially at night
- Food cravings or aversions
- Mood swings or emotional changes
- Light spotting or implantation bleeding
- Changes in breast appearance including darkening areolas
Confirmation
- Use a home pregnancy test after a missed period to detect the pregnancy hormone (hCG).
- A doctor can confirm pregnancy with urine, blood tests, or ultrasound scans.
- Early diagnosis helps start proper pregnancy care.
If any symptoms cause discomfort or if pregnancy is uncertain, consulting a healthcare provider is recommended.
