Early Signs of Pregnancy

What to Look For and How Choice Adoptions Can Help

Sometimes it’s not easy or even possible to recognize a pregnancy right away, especially if you experience irregular periods. You may not immediately notice a missed period or other common early symptoms. However, there are many other signs your body may give you to indicate you could be pregnant.

If you think you might be pregnant but don’t have the resources to see a doctor, Choice Adoptions is here to help. You can call our pregnancy hotline at 503-550-9310 for immediate support. We provide pregnancy resources, including covering doctor’s appointments and helping you enroll in the Oregon Health Plan (OHP).

Common Signs of Pregnancy

Pregnancy symptoms can vary from person to person, but here are some common early indicators:

1. Missed Period

One of the earliest and most common signs of pregnancy is a missed menstrual cycle. However, other factors such as stress, hormonal imbalances, or medical conditions can also affect your cycle. You also may still experience some forms of bleeding when pregnant.

2. Fatigue

Feeling unusually tired? Increased progesterone levels in early pregnancy can cause fatigue, making you feel more sluggish or needing extra rest.

3. Frequent Urination

If you find yourself making more trips to the bathroom, it could be due to hormonal changes and increased blood flow, which puts extra pressure on your bladder.

4. Breast Changes

Pregnancy hormones can lead to breast tenderness, swelling, or sensitivity. You might also notice darkening of the areolas as your body begins to prepare for potential breastfeeding.

5. Food Cravings and Aversions

Sudden cravings or an unexpected distaste for certain foods could be linked to hormonal changes affecting your sense of taste and smell.

6. Mood Swings

Feeling unusually emotional, irritable, or overwhelmed? Rapid hormonal changes in early pregnancy can lead to mood swings and emotional fluctuations.

7. Light Spotting or Implantation Bleeding

Some people experience light spotting when the fertilized egg attaches to the uterus lining—this is called implantation bleeding. It typically occurs 10-14 days after conception and may be mistaken for a light period.

8. Dizziness and Lightheadedness

Lower blood pressure and changes in circulation during early pregnancy can cause occasional dizziness or lightheadedness. Standing up quickly or going long periods without eating can make these symptoms worse.

9. Bloating

Hormonal changes can cause bloating, similar to premenstrual symptoms, making your stomach feel fuller or tighter.

10. Metallic Taste in Mouth (Dysgeusia)

Some pregnant individuals report a strange, metallic taste in their mouth early on, which is linked to hormonal shifts, particularly increased estrogen levels.

11. Constipation

Pregnancy hormones can slow digestion, leading to constipation. If you’re experiencing changes in your bowel movements along with other symptoms, it could be a sign of pregnancy.

12. Increased Basal Body Temperature (BBT)

If you’re tracking your BBT, you may notice it stays elevated after ovulation. A consistently high BBT for more than two weeks can indicate pregnancy.

13. Headaches

Hormonal fluctuations and increased blood volume can sometimes cause more frequent headaches in early pregnancy.

14. Changes in Cervical Mucus

Some women notice an increase in thick, creamy cervical mucus after ovulation, which can be an early pregnancy sign.

15. Increased Heart Rate or Palpitations

Pregnancy boosts blood flow, which can lead to a slightly higher heart rate or occasional palpitations.

If you would like to learn more about possible pregnancy symptoms, here are some reliable medical sources:

1. American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG)

2. Mayo Clinic

3. Office on Women’s Health (OASH) 

Need Support? Choice Adoptions Is Here for You

Pregnancy can bring up a lot of emotions, questions, and decisions. Whether you’re feeling uncertain, overwhelmed, or simply need more information, Choice Adoptions is here to help. We offer:

• Pregnancy support – We can assist with doctor’s appointments and OHP enrollment.

• Counseling and resources – Our advocates provide guidance and support, no matter where you are in your pregnancy journey.

• Choices – We’re here to help you understand all your options, including parenting, abortion, and adoption, so you can make an informed decision.

If you need support or want to learn more about our services, contact us today. You’re not alone. We’re here for you every step of the way.