Some early pregnancy signs are well-known, such as missed menstrual periods and morning nausea. Others are not, and can be mistaken for oncoming menstruation, mild illness, or stress. Below are common early pregnancy signs to watch for. If you're experiencing the signs below, make a timely OB-GYN appointment. 

A Guide to Early Pregnancy Symptoms

1. Light Spotting

Mild red, brown, or pink spotting can occur during the first four weeks of pregnancy. It does not indicate a light period, but rather implantation bleeding where the fertilized egg attaches to the uterine wall. Implantation typically takes place six to 12 days after egg fertilization and can happen in conjunction with light cramping from stretching. 

2. Mood Changes

Two reproductive hormones, estrogen and progesterone, increase significantly in the weeks after conception, often causing moodiness. 

Estrogen helps the uterus and placenta form blood vessels and transfer nutrients to the fetus, while progesterone contributes to egg fertilization by thickening uterine walls. It also helps the uterine muscles expand to accommodate a growing fetus. As the pregnant body becomes flooded with these hormones, emotions can feel more intense. 

3. Increased Urination

Blood volume increases during pregnancy to supply the developing fetus with oxygen and other nutrients. The kidneys work harder to process the extra fluid, which they send to the bladder and trigger more frequent trips to the bathroom. Increased urination is also common in later pregnancy stages because the fetus is heavier and puts more pressure on the bladder. 

4. Sore Breasts

Hormone “flooding” during early pregnancy often affects the breasts, making them feel sore, heavy, and tender. Nipple tingling and tenderness can also occur as reproductive hormones prepare the body for fetal development and breastfeeding. Hormones enlarge milk-producing glands, which cause the breasts to grow quickly over a relatively short time frame. As the body gets used to hormonal changes, breast discomfort subsides. 

5. Lower Back Pain 

Many women experience low back pain early in their pregnancies because of increased hormone production-related stress that tenses muscles. Back discomfort can also happen from reproductive hormones loosening ligaments and joints to help the body deliver the baby nine months later. Women can experience back pain in later trimesters as well from heavy fetuses and altered centers of gravity. 

If you think you might be pregnant, make an appointment with Advanced OB-GYN Services. Featuring locations in St. Peters and Bridgeton, MO, the OB-GYN center offers pregnancy preparation services, including providing information on breastfeeding. The doctors conduct exams to ensure the mother and baby are healthy throughout the pregnancy. Call (636) 928-1800 to schedule an OB-GYN appointment or learn more about their services online.