Early signs of pregnancy: the first symptoms and when they start

Key facts

When do pregnancy symptoms start?

Pregnancy is counted from the first day of your last period, so by the time your period is late you are already about 4 weeks pregnant. Hormone changes after implantation cause most early signs. Some start before your period is due; most build over the following weeks.

The most common early signs

• Missed period. The clearest sign if your cycles are regular. Stress, illness, breastfeeding and PCOS can also delay a period.
• Tender, swollen or tingly breasts. Often one of the first changes, from about 1 to 2 weeks after conception. The area around the nipples may darken.
• Tiredness. Rising progesterone can make you exhausted, even in the first weeks.
• Nausea or vomiting. "Morning sickness" can strike at any time of day. See our morning sickness guide.
• Needing to pee more often, including at night.
• Light spotting. Some women have implantation bleeding around the time their period is due.
• Mild cramps and bloating, a lot like period cramps.
• Food changes. New cravings, going off foods you liked, or a metallic taste.
• Stronger sense of smell, especially cooking smells and perfume.
• Mood swings, headaches, constipation and more vaginal discharge.

Pregnancy or your period coming?

Many early signs feel like the days before a period. These differences can help, but only a test will tell you.

"Can I feel pregnant after 1 week?"

One week after sex, a fertilised egg may only just be implanting, and hormone levels are still too low for most symptoms or a test. Signs at this stage are more likely to be your usual cycle. Wait until your period is due, then take a test.

What to do if you think you're pregnant

1. Take a home pregnancy test from the first day of your missed period.
2. Start folic acid 400 micrograms a day if you haven't already. Read the first trimester guide.
3. Work out your due date with the due date calculator.
4. Book your first appointment with a doctor or midwife.
5. Stop alcohol and smoking, and check any regular medicines with a doctor.

When to get help urgently

Pain on one side of your lower tummy, pain in the tip of your shoulder, heavy bleeding, or feeling faint can be signs of an ectopic pregnancy. Go to hospital straight away. Read more in miscarriage and ectopic pregnancy.

Frequently asked questions

Sources

• NHS: Signs and symptoms of pregnancy
• ACOG: Pregnancy FAQs
• US Office on Women's Health: Stages of pregnancy

General information, not medical advice. Medical disclaimer · How we review content

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