There are a number of physical changes an expecting mother experiences during the first few weeks after conception. While you may not personally experience all of them, most women find themselves struggling with at least a few.
Fuller breasts
The most noticeable and usually the first symptom of pregnancy is swollen breast. Due to the immediate hormonal changes that occur to a woman’s chemistry when she conceives, her breast will become enlarged, and often times, tender and sore. I first noticed this while taking a shower.
Fatigue
I first chalked my weariness up to being over-worked and stressed-out from my job. My doctor later informed me it was due to my progesterone levels being grossly elevated during the first month after conception. I’ve been pregnant 4 times. With the last one however, I was more tired than I’d ever been with the others. I soon discovered why; twins.
Nausea (aka: morning sickness)
This was the worst part of my pregnancies. Nausea, coupled with my chronic fatigue (especially the twins) really put a damper on my mornings. As with all pregnant women, my estrogen levels were elevated. As such, my digestive system wasn’t working as fast as it normally did. This also led to constipation.
Cravings
Watermelon, chocolate, pickles, peanut butter, whatever forms your cravings manifest themselves in, it’s a good indication you’re pregnant. Once again, the doctor said it was those hormonal changes that were at the root of this insatiable desire to consume certain foods.
Aversions
No, I’m not talking about to your husband. I mean to certain smells. Pregnancy brings with a heightened sense of smell. Because of this, you may find yourself shying away from that beloved morning cup of coffee simply because the smell of it turns your stomach. Not to fear, you will undoubtedly return to needing that coveted cup of java by the end of your first trimester.
Mood swings
While I never felt the urge to throttle my husband (that came later at delivery) I did find that my emotions took on a sort of bi-polar trait. One minute I was washing the dishes, dreaming of holding my baby (babies) and the next I was snapping at someone on the other end of the phone for no apparent reason.
If you’re experiencing any number of these symptoms, and you are a sexually active individual, you may want to run to the drugstore and pick yourself up one of those home-pregnancy test kits. I’m not saying you’re pregnant. These symptoms may very well be coming into play for other reasons. But, chances are you’ve conceived.
The earlier you know for sure, the earlier you can begin prenatal care for you and your baby (or babies!).
