Normal early pregnancy symptoms
It is normal for a woman’s body to change in the early weeks of pregnancy, due to an increase in certain hormones, mainly progesterone, oestrogen and human chorionic gonadotrophin (HCG). The hormones help to maintain the pregnancy until the placenta is fully formed and takes over at 12 weeks of pregnancy. These changes can cause several different symptoms, however they are not ALL felt by every women.
Breast tenderness, urinary frequency and tiredness
Some of the early signs of pregnancy are breast tenderness, tiredness and passing urine more often. Your breasts may feel tender, slightly enlarged or tingly. Taking off your bra may prove a relief or make them feel worse. Some women find wearing a sleep bra at night comfortable. You might wake in the night to go to the toilet or visit the bathroom more during the day, and as long as there is no burning or stinging, this is normal. This is due to the uterus growing and filling the space in your pelvis. You might feel more tired than usual, but listening to your body and going to bed early is beneficial. These initial symptoms can start to improve after 10 weeks of pregnancy.
Nausea
Not every woman feels sick, and actually some just feel really hungry! Eating small amounts of food often helps to keep nausea at bay if your nausea is mild or intermittent. Other women are affected by certain smells which can increase nausea. However if you are vomiting excessively and not able to keep down any food and are struggling to drink fluids you should seek further advice from your GP or midwife. Once your hormone levels even out, nausea can also settle. A very helpful website if you are suffering excessive sickness is www.pregnancysicknesssupport.org.uk
Pelvic discomfort
Another common symptom women report is period-type discomfort, sometimes described as cramping or a heavy feeling low in your pelvis. This is completely normal and can last for the first trimester. You can also feel bloated as your bowel slows down due to the increase in progesterone. If you are constipated your GP might prescribe a gentle laxative. If your pain is severe your GP will ensure there are no other causes such as a urine infection. They might refer you for a scan to check your baby is in the correct place. Sometimes the pain can be from your ovary where the egg was released as it forms a small normal pregnancy cyst called the corpus luteum. Paracetamol is safe to take during pregnancy for mild pains. If your period pain is mild, you are feeling pregnant and have no bleeding there is no immediate cause for concern and your GP may reassure you. All of these pregnancy symptoms often settle towards the end of the first trimester and most women begin to feel more like their normal self.
Remember every woman is different and your symptoms will be normal for you. One day you might feel exhausted and sick and the next have a boost of energy and eat normally! Try not to compare how you feel with others. If you have any concerns talk to your midwife or GP.