What to do when the signs of pregnancy appear

We could say “if you notice early symptoms of pregnancy, do this or that”. But that would sound as if we were talking about an illness. We are not. Pregnancy is a natural, wonderful state, even if there are occasional discomforts along the way.

When you are excitedly waiting to find out whether a baby has been conceived, you notice every tiny sign. You browse the internet to learn the truth in advance, before a test or a doctor can confirm it. Of course you do, you are so ready for it.

In this guide, we will help you navigate the sea of information. We will look at the early signs of pregnancy, other changes you may notice later on, and what to do at each stage. We will also touch on how to avoid higher risk situations where possible.

Signs of fertilisation and implantation 

The first few days are about the fertilised egg travelling to the uterus and implanting. Often this process has no symptoms.
You may feel stabbing pains in the lower abdomen around the time of implantation. However, this can also be a premenstrual symptom, or even a sign of a urinary tract infection (a tell tale clue there is pain when you wee).

Implantation can be accompanied by spotting. This can be mistaken for the start of a period, but it is not followed by a heavy flow.

Some people also experience a slight temperature rise, although a mild viral infection could equally be the cause.

There are many stories of mums who “just knew” before anything could be detected. If you do not feel this, do not worry , it does not define your bond with your child.

All of the above are very uncertain signs and can be confused with other things.

If you suspect you have conceived, it makes sense to avoid alcohol, other harmful drinks and foods, and smoking. If you take any medication not recommended in pregnancy, speak to your doctor right away.

When it is time for a pregnancy test 

Modern pregnancy tests detect hCG, produced first by the embryo and later by the placenta, which appears in urine.
It is worth testing a few days after your missed period. For the exact timing, follow the test instructions.
The first wee of the morning is the most suitable, because hCG levels are highest then.

If the test is negative but your period still does not arrive, repeat it a few days later.
If the test is positive, book an appointment with a gynaecologist. When booking, give the date of your last period. This helps estimate how far along you might be and when an ultrasound scan would be useful.

Further signs of pregnancy

As time passes, you may notice more and more changes. These appear earlier for some, later for others. Here are 10 plus 1 common signs:

Breast tenderness: due to hormonal changes, your breasts can become more sensitive, sometimes tight or fuller. The nipples may look darker.

Cravings or aversions: you may strongly crave certain foods, while others suddenly put you off. Smells you barely noticed before can become very intense. Some people say their sense of smell is like a dog’s.

Nausea and vomiting: in most cases this occurs in the first 12 weeks (often from week 6 to 8), but for many it lasts longer. Some do not experience it at all, for others it is very strong. It is important to replace fluids and minerals.

Many mums feel worse in the morning; for others it peaks in the evening; some feel it all day. If this is you, take comfort that slower digestion and the unpleasant symptoms are linked to raised progesterone, which supports the pregnancy. If you do not have these symptoms, do not fear miscarriage - everyone responds differently. Even for the same woman, different pregnancies can feel different.

Constipation and bloating: slowed digestion can cause constipation and bloating. Help yourself by eating fibre-rich foods, fruit and vegetables. Psyllium husk can also be useful.

Important: if you vomit several times a day, or feel almost nothing stays down, you need immediate medical help to avoid dehydration.

Tiredness: your body is focusing on supporting the baby, so you will be prompted to rest more often. For a twenty first century working woman this can be challenging, but it is a natural process that serves baby’s health.

Mood changes: we are more sensitive at this time, that is a fact. Help yourself by carving out time to recharge: a good book, film or music can lift your spirits (avoid anything too upsetting). Or perhaps a short walk or a good chat is what you need. Whatever works, do not deny yourself. People say if you feel well, baby feels well too.
If it still does not come together, do not force it. If you need a good cry, let the tears flow and allow yourself to process what you need to.
You do not have to bottle up your feelings, but aim for a positive state of mind. We warmly recommend Prof. Dr Emőke Bagdy’s Pszichofitnessz lecture series for emotional wellbeing.

Frequent need to wee: as your bump grows, you will feel the urge more often, because there is more pressure on the bladder. Due to increased blood volume, urine output also rises (the kidneys filter it from the blood).

Shortness of breath: this is more typical later on, when your bump is larger and movement is harder. You may feel you cannot get enough air. Slow down, rest, take deeper breaths, relax. If it cannot be resolved due to a health problem, seek prompt medical help, as baby needs oxygen too.

Headache: pregnancy can come with headaches. If this happens, check your blood pressure; although high BP is not always the cause, it is more likely to rise in pregnancy. If your reading is higher than usual, see your doctor, as it can be dangerous. There is no need to panic - your doctor can prescribe medication safe in pregnancy.

Before taking any medicine, consult your doctor. Use pain relief only if needed and only those safe in pregnancy.

Vaginal discharge: the amount can change and become greater. This is not a problem. If it has an unpleasant smell, a strange colour (yellowish, brownish or even greenish) or you feel itching, see a gynaecologist. This can signal an infection that must be treated. During pregnancy, the immune system can be a little weaker, so pay extra attention to hygiene. If you are prone to UTIs or vaginal infections, choose showers over baths and use gentle, suitable pH intimate washes to protect the mucosa rather than body wash or soap.

Nasal congestion: during a sniffly season it can be especially annoying that your nose blocks more easily as the nasal lining swells. Using a saline nasal spray can help.

What to do if your health takes a turn 

Many people find they catch infections or viruses more easily in pregnancy. The immune system can be less robust. There is also an increased chance of insulin resistance and high blood pressure. Thyroid function can change too.

You will have a glucose tolerance test, and blood pressure is checked during routine care. If you suspect something is off at home, speak to your doctor — but do not panic. If a problem is found, there will be a plan to improve your health and keep baby safe.

How to protect your health 

To reduce the chance of problems, limit your intake of refined carbohydrates (white flour, sugar). It is hard to resist a sweet treat sometimes. If you really crave one, choose options without added sugars, such as fruit and seed based alternatives. You will be getting vitamins and minerals too. We do not recommend artificial sweeteners, as their effect on you and baby can be uncertain.

Naturally, fast food is not the best choice. Instead of processed foods, try to embrace more home style meals made from natural ingredients.

If your doctor has not prescribed bed rest, build in walks and gentle, low impact activity. Antenatal exercise and pregnancy yoga can be especially beneficial.

Do not worry excessively about little signs and niggles, but do not ignore them either. Prepare joyfully to welcome your baby. At the start you may not yet know if you are having a boy or a girl, but it still feels lovely to browse baby essentials and dream a little.
If you already know your baby’s sex, it might be time to choose the clothes. Look not only at how they look, but also at quality fabrics and comfort for baby. That is how baby will feel better and it will show in sleep quality and mood.

If you would rather not buy every single piece one by one, we can warmly recommend our extra soft bamboo babywear bundles.

Have you experienced any unusual symptoms during your pregnancy If yes, we would love you to share your story with us in the comments.

Sources:

NHS — Signs and symptoms of pregnancy

Tommy’s — Pregnancy week by week