Early signs of pregnancy
Dr Sagar Jha explains Pregnancy is one of the most exciting journeys in a woman’s life — but it often begins with subtle changes that you might miss if you’re not looking closely.
As a gynecologist in India, I often meet women who come in saying, “Doctor, I feel different… could I be pregnant?”
The answer lies in listening to your body.
Here’s a guide to early signs of pregnancy, so you can recognise them and seek timely care.
1. Missed Period
This is the most common first sign.
If your menstrual cycle is regular and your period is more than a week late, it might be time to take a home pregnancy test.
However, stress, weight changes, or hormonal imbalance can also delay periods — so confirmation is important.
💡 Doctor’s Tip: If your cycles are irregular, don’t rely solely on a missed period. Watch out for other signs too.
2. Morning Sickness (Nausea & Vomiting)
It doesn’t just happen in the morning — nausea can occur any time of day.
This usually starts around week 5 or 6 of pregnancy, due to hormonal changes (especially rising hCG levels).
What helps:
- Eating small, frequent meals
- Avoiding oily or spicy foods
- Staying hydrated with coconut water, lemon water, or plain water
3. Tender or Swollen Breasts
Hormonal shifts make your breasts feel fuller, heavier, or more sensitive.
The areola (skin around the nipple) may darken as early as two weeks after conception.
4. Fatigue & Sleepiness
Even before you’re visibly pregnant, your body is working overtime to support the growing embryo.
High progesterone levels can make you feel unusually tired.
Tip: Short naps and a balanced diet can help you cope with early-pregnancy fatigue.
5. Frequent Urination
As your uterus expands and hormonal changes increase blood flow to the pelvic area, you may feel the urge to pee more often — even in the first few weeks.
6. Mood Swings
Hormonal changes can make you emotional, irritable, or extra sensitive.
It’s completely normal, but make sure you have a good support system.
7. Food Cravings or Aversions
You might suddenly crave foods you’ve never liked — or feel repulsed by your favourites.
This too is due to hormonal changes in early pregnancy.
8. Light Spotting or Implantation Bleeding
A few women experience mild spotting around the time their period is due.
This can happen when the fertilized egg attaches to the uterine lining.
It’s usually lighter in flow and shorter in duration than a normal period.
When to Take a Pregnancy Test
- If you’ve missed your period by one week or more
- If you have multiple early signs mentioned above
- If you’ve had unprotected intercourse and suspect conception
Best Time to Test: Early morning urine gives the most accurate results as it contains higher levels of hCG hormone.
When to See a Doctor
- Persistent vomiting or inability to keep food down
- Severe abdominal pain or heavy bleeding
- Dizziness or fainting spells
Final Word
Every woman’s pregnancy journey is unique.
Some notice changes within days, others only after several weeks.
The best way to be sure is to confirm with a home test followed by a doctor’s visit.
Early prenatal care ensures a healthier pregnancy for both you and your baby.
for further queries reach out to Dr Sagar Jha
If you want to check waht food to eat and avoid in pregnancy visit https://drsagarjha.com/foods-to-eat-and-avoid-during-early-pregnancy-dr-sagar-jha/
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) on Early Signs of Pregnancy
1. What are the first symptoms of pregnancy?
The earliest signs include a missed period, nausea or vomiting, tender breasts, fatigue, mood swings, and frequent urination. Some women also notice light spotting called implantation bleeding.
2. Can I feel pregnancy symptoms before a missed period?
Yes. Some women feel early changes like breast tenderness, mild cramps, or unusual tiredness even before their period is due, usually 1–2 weeks after conception.
3. When should I take a pregnancy test?
You’ll get the most accurate results one week after your missed period, using early morning urine. If your cycles are irregular, test 3–4 weeks after unprotected intercourse.
4. Is spotting in early pregnancy normal?
Light spotting can be normal and is often due to implantation. But heavy bleeding, severe cramps, or pain should be checked by a doctor immediately.
5. Who should I consult if I suspect I’m pregnant in Mumbai?
If you’re in Mumbai or nearby areas like Chembur, Ghatkopar, Kurla, Dahisar, or Borivali, you can consult Dr. Sagar Jha, Obstetrician & Gynecologist, for early pregnancy confirmation and care.
6. Can stress delay my period and mimic pregnancy symptoms?
Yes. Stress, sudden weight changes, or hormonal issues can delay your cycle and cause symptoms like fatigue or mood swings. That’s why testing is important before assuming pregnancy.
7. What foods should I eat in early pregnancy?
Focus on fresh fruits, vegetables, whole grains, protein-rich foods, and plenty of water. Avoid excessive caffeine, raw seafood, and unpasteurized dairy products.
