Some of the earliest signs of pregnancy can appear even before a missed period, but they are not proof on their own. A pregnancy test and a healthcare professional are needed to confirm pregnancy.
Very common early signs
- Missed period, especially if cycles are usually regular.
- Nausea or “morning sickness,” which can occur at any time of day.
- Breast changes such as soreness, swelling, or darkening of the area around the nipples.
Other physical symptoms
- Feeling unusually tired or exhausted.
- Needing to urinate more often than usual.
- Mild cramping, bloating, or a feeling of heaviness in the lower abdomen.
Less obvious changes
- Increased or unusual food cravings or sudden dislike of certain foods or smells.
- Mood swings, feeling more emotional or irritable than usual.
- A strange metallic taste in the mouth or a heightened sense of smell.
When to take a test
Home pregnancy tests are usually reliable from the first day of a missed period and become more accurate a few days after that. If results are unclear or symptoms are worrying (strong pain, heavy bleeding, dizziness), medical care should be sought promptly. If you share your symptoms and when your last period was, a more tailored explanation can be given.