In this article:
Why a Missed Period Happens in Pregnancy
A missed period is usually the earliest and most noticeable sign that you might be pregnant. Once conception happens, your body starts producing a hormone called human chorionic gonadotrophin (hCG). It’s made in the placenta around 8 to 10 days after conception.These hormones stop ovulation and prevent your uterus from shedding its lining, which is what happens during a regular period. So, if you’re pregnant, your menstrual cycle pauses, and you won’t get your period until after the baby is born.
That said, a missed period doesn’t always mean you’re pregnant. Stress, sudden weight changes, excessive exercise, or hormonal issues can also delay your period.
What are the Common Early Signs of Pregnancy
Pregnancy symptoms can look and feel different for everyone. Even if you’ve been pregnant before, your next experience might not be the same.These are the most common early pregnancy signs to watch for:
Tender or Swollen Breasts
Within the first week or two after conception, your breasts may start to feel sore, heavy, or extra sensitive. You might also notice they look fuller, and your bra feels a bit tighter than usual. The skin around your nipples, called the areola, may darken or get slightly larger.This happens because of hormonal changes (mainly an increase in oestrogen and progesterone) as your body gets ready to support a pregnancy.
Fatigue and Tiredness
Feeling unusually tired is common in early pregnancy, sometimes as early as one week after conception. The hormone progesterone plays a big role here. It helps support your growing baby but also slows down your metabolism, which can leave you feeling drained. You might find yourself wanting naps more often or struggling to stay awake through the day.Morning Sickness (Nausea and Vomiting)
Morning sickness isn’t limited to mornings, it can happen any time of day. It usually starts between 2 to 8 weeks after conception. You might feel queasy, lose your appetite, or sometimes vomit.About half of all pregnant people experience this, though it can vary from mild nausea to more intense sickness. If you’re struggling to keep food or fluids down, it might be a more severe condition called hyperemesis gravidarum.
Frequent Urination
You may notice yourself needing to pee more often, even before you’ve missed a period. Early in pregnancy, your body produces more blood. This makes your kidneys work harder to filter waste, and that means more trips to the bathroom.As your pregnancy continues, your growing uterus presses on your bladder when you lie down at night, making the urge even stronger.
Mood Swings
Hormonal changes can make your emotions feel like a rollercoaster. You might feel more sensitive, easily irritated, or even unexpectedly tearful. These mood swings are completely normal.What Are the Less Common Early Signs of Pregnancy?
Not everyone gets the classic pregnancy symptoms, and some may notice other, less common signs:Spotting or Light Bleeding (Implantation Bleeding)
About 10 to 14 days after conception, you might see light spotting or a brownish discharge. This is called implantation bleeding and happens when the fertilised egg attaches to the lining of your uterus. It’s usually much lighter than a regular period, and can come and go over a few days.Cramps in the Lower Abdomen
Some people feel mild, period-like cramps 1 to 2 weeks after conception as the uterus begins to expand. These cramps are usually short-lived and not too uncomfortable.Food Cravings or Aversions
Early pregnancy can change your sense of taste and smell. You might suddenly crave certain foods or lose interest in things you usually enjoy. Some people even notice a strange metallic taste in their mouth, either randomly or when eating specific foods.Bloating and Constipation
Hormones, especially progesterone, can slow down your digestive system. This might leave you feeling bloated, fuller than usual, or more prone to constipation.Headaches and Dizziness
Early pregnancy can bring headaches or make you feel a bit dizzy. This happens because of increased blood volume and hormonal changes. Dehydration from nausea or cutting back on caffeine can also make it worse.Heightened Sense of Smell
You might suddenly notice that certain smells, like strong food aromas or perfume, feel overwhelming. This increased sensitivity is caused by hormonal changes and can sometimes trigger nausea or discomfort.Noticing a missed period can be the first hint that you might be pregnant, but it’s just one of many early pregnancy signs. Understanding them helps you feel more prepared and confident about what’s happening.
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FAQs on Missed Period? The First Signs That You're Pregnant
- How soon after a missed period can I take a pregnancy test?
For the most accurate results, wait at least a few days to a week after a missed period before taking a home pregnancy test. - Can medications affect my menstrual cycle?
Yes, certain medications, such as hormonal contraceptives, fertility treatments, or some antidepressants, can delay or change your period.
