Pregnancy Symptoms
If you suspect you are pregnant, it is important to do a pregnancy test to find out for sure. This may save you from unnecessary worry. Pregnancy test kits can be bought at chemists and supermarkets, or you can have a blood test by visiting a GP.
A missed period is the most common indication that you may be pregnant, but it doesn’t necessarily mean you are pregnant. There are physical signs that you will experience as well during pregnancy as your body goes through many changes.
Common pregnancy symptoms:
- Late period
- Tender or swollen breasts
- Frequent urination
- Nausea or vomiting
- Fatigue
- Lightheadedness or fainting
- Backaches
- Food cravings or aversions
- Darkening of the nipples
Later Signs of Pregnancy
As a pregnancy progresses, the signs and symptoms become more pronounced and harder for people to miss.
- an enlargement of the abdomen
- weight gain
- aches: such as backaches or headaches
- quickening (feeling of fetal movement)
- food cravings
Trained medical personnel can also detect additional signs and symptoms of pregnancy with a physical examination and other procedures such as an ultrasound. These signs and symptoms include changes in the size and shape of the uterus, changes in the cervix, or fetal heart signs or movements.
If you or someone you know is experiencing any of these pregnancy signs, and is concerned about the situation, we can offer free, confidential help.
It is helpful to talk to those close to you but sometimes it also helps to talk to someone who is “outside” the situation, someone who is willing to just listen.
We invite you to call our Help Line. Our counsellors and Pregnancy Support Workers are able to assist you at this time.