Early Signs of Pregnancy: 15 Symptoms to Look for Before a Missed Period 

Are you wondering if you might be pregnant? One of the most common questions women ask is: “What are the early signs of pregnancy?” While a missed period is often the most obvious symptom, many women notice pregnancy symptoms even before a missed period. Knowing these early indicators can help you decide when to take a pregnancy test and what to expect in the first trimester of pregnancy.

Below, we cover the top 15 early pregnancy symptoms backed by research and commonly reported by women worldwide.

1. Missed Period

The most common early sign of pregnancy is a missed period. However, irregular cycles, stress, or hormonal changes can also delay menstruation. If your period is late, it’s a good idea to take a home pregnancy test for confirmation.

2. Implantation Bleeding or Spotting

Some women experience light spotting or implantation bleeding around 6–12 days after ovulation when the fertilized egg attaches to the uterine wall. This can be confused with a light period but is actually one of the first signs of pregnancy before a missed period.

3. Morning Sickness and Nausea

Morning sickness is one of the most searched pregnancy symptoms online. Many women start feeling nausea or queasiness as early as week 4 or 5 of pregnancy. Despite its name, morning sickness can happen any time of the day.

4. Fatigue and Tiredness

Feeling unusually tired and sleepy is a very common early pregnancy symptom. Rising levels of progesterone can make you feel drained, even if you’re getting enough sleep.

5. Breast Tenderness and Changes

Sore, swollen, or tingly breasts are another early pregnancy sign caused by hormonal changes. Your nipples may also darken in color.

6. Frequent Urination

An increase in urination often occurs within the first weeks of pregnancy as your body produces more blood and your kidneys work harder.

7. Food Cravings and Aversions

Many women report unusual food cravings or food aversions in early pregnancy. Foods you once loved may suddenly make you feel nauseous.

8. Bloating and Mild Cramps

Early pregnancy bloating can feel similar to PMS symptoms. Mild cramps may also occur due to implantation and uterine changes.

9. Mood Swings

Hormonal changes in early pregnancy can cause sudden mood swings, irritability, or heightened emotions.

10. Headaches and Dizziness

Increased blood flow and hormone fluctuations can cause headaches, dizziness, or lightheadedness in the first trimester.

11. Basal Body Temperature Changes

Tracking your basal body temperature (BBT) can sometimes show a sustained rise after ovulation if you are pregnant.

12. Constipation and Digestive Issues

Rising progesterone levels can slow digestion, leading to constipation, gas, or indigestion.

13. Metallic Taste in Mouth

Some women describe a metallic taste in their mouth as one of the first symptoms of pregnancy.

14. Heightened Sense of Smell

A strong sensitivity to smells is another common early pregnancy symptom that often triggers nausea.

15. Back Pain and Pelvic Discomfort

Some women report lower back pain or pelvic discomfort in the earliest weeks of pregnancy.

When to Take a Pregnancy Test

For the most accurate result, take a pregnancy test after your missed period. However, some sensitive tests can detect the pregnancy hormone (hCG) as early as 10 days after ovulation.

Final Thoughts

The early signs of pregnancy can vary greatly between women. Some may notice symptoms just days after conception, while others don’t feel anything until later in the first trimester. If you think you might be pregnant, take a test and schedule a visit with your doctor or OB-GYN.

Knowing the early pregnancy symptoms before missed period can help you better prepare for a healthy pregnancy journey.

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