First Signs of Pregnancy - Signs of Pregnancy
By Lesley Jay
Usually the first indication of pregnancy is a missed menstrual cycle. Pregnancy can be confirmed by using a home pregnancy test or a blood test from a hospital. Although a missed menstrual cycle is the first sign, it’s not the only sign of pregnancy.
A missed menstrual cycle doesn’t necessarily mean pregnancy. A missed cycle can also be caused by stress, illness, use of new medications, rapid weight loss or gain, or birth control. If a menstrual cycle is missed for more than one cycle a physician should be contacted to see if there is a medical reason.
About one third of pregnant women will still experience bleeding around the time the menstrual cycle would take place. The bleeding is usually light pink or brown. This is called implantation bleeding. Implantation bleeding starts when the egg has been fertilized and implantation has occurred in the uterus. This can take place between 6-12 days after ovulation. Implantation bleeding is harmless unless complemented with cramping, increased bleeding, or back pain.
Other signs of pregnancy might include tender breasts, fatigue, irritability, bloating, food aversions or cravings, increased sense of smell, and dizziness or light headed. Many of these signs can also be related to the menstruation, also. All of the above symptoms may be present or none of them. This varies from woman to woman and from pregnancy to pregnancy. These are caused by the rising levels of hCG (human chorionic gonadotropin), progesterone, and estrogen. HCG is produced by the embryo shortly after conception takes place. The main purpose of hCG is to sustain the growing fetus. Progesterone is needed to fight off bad cells that could harm the placenta, strengthens the pelvic walls, and keep the uterus from contractions. At the end of pregnancy the progesterone levels drop off allowing labor to begin. Estrogen is used to regulate the amount of progesterone during the entire pregnancy. Estrogen is also needed to help develop the baby while in the womb.
Another sign of pregnancy is frequent urination. Due to the increased blood flow caused by pregnancy, more fluids are being processed through the kidneys and ending up in the bladder. This may be noticed more at night than during the day. Blood will flow back into the main bloodstream from the legs and feet while in the lying down position. To help decrease the amount of bathroom breaks during the night, try to avoid drinking beverages a few hours before bedtime. Make sure to take in a lot of water during the day. If there is any burning while urinating this could be a sign of a urinary tract infection. A physician should be contacted immediately.
If any or all of these symptoms are experienced, take a home pregnancy test or contact a doctor. Pregnancy is a great possibility. These are the first signs of pregnancy, but could also be related to menstruation or a potential health problem as well.
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