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If you are on the lookout for a sign that will tell you that you are pregnant, then my list below is for you.
Many of the symptoms listed below may cause you considerable discomfort. But if you are trying to get pregnant and see these signs – rejoice instead of feeling annoyed. Do not self-medicate to get rid of these signs and symptoms because reckless self-medication can be dangerous in the first trimester. Instead, connect with your doctor and get a pregnancy test done.
These are the top 10 signs of pregnancy –
- Fatigue
This is the most common first sign of pregnancy, and yet surprisingly the least publicized.
If you are an energetic person, you are likely to receive the intense exhaustion of early pregnancy with irritation, confusion, and some degree of depression.
But if you are trying to conceive, this should set your heart fluttering. You may soon be celebrating.
- Nausea and vomiting
Any woman feeling nauseated is always asked if there is “good news” on the way. And so, I am sure you know that this is a sign that you may be pregnant. Yes. Nausea is good news at this point. Get that pregnancy test done.
- Food aversion
Many women don’t feel nauseated but they just can’t think of eating any food. The sight, smell and sometimes even the thought of some foods may be intolerable. Don’t worry – this is good for you. It keeps your baby safe from the toxins certain foods may have.
- Acidity or heartburn
The hormones of pregnancy often cause acidity and heartburn because they loosen the muscles in the gut. Do not self-medicate. Reach out to your doctor for a remedy.
- Tender, swollen breasts
If your breasts hurt for no reason, instead of crying in pain it could be time to rejoice. The hormones of pregnancy are probably at work already preparing your breasts for breastfeeding. Look carefully and you may find that your breasts are larger, the areolas are darker than before and there are some elevated projections on the areola.
- Frequent urination
Don’t snap in anger if your bladder prompts you to make frequent trips to the washroom. And most certainly don’t reduce your water intake. Get your pregnancy test done. You could be pregnant.
- Vaginal discharge
Slightly increased vaginal discharge is a sign of pregnancy. The discharge during pregnancy however is not irritating, smelly or excessive. If it does become excessive, smelly or irritating, consult your doctor immediately. Also report if you have watery discharge.
- Dizziness
Many women feel dizzy during pregnancy. If you feel dizzy you may be pregnant.
- Bloating and constipation
If despite your high fibre and sufficient water intake you still feel bloated and constipated, it may be the pregnancy hormones at work. Don’t self-medicate. Do a pregnancy test first.
- Emotional outbursts
If even the smallest issues trigger an emotional response, you could be pregnant. Yes, you have permission to get emotional. Let go and get rid of the stress.
I empathize with you if these signs of pregnancy are making you uncomfortable. Take heart in the fact that they are all temporary. Experience them mindfully without panic. If they are proving to be too difficult to get through, consult with your doctor.
By
Dr. Debmita Dutta MBBS, MD
Dr. Debmita Dutta MBBS, MD is a doctor, a parenting consultant, and the founder of WPA whatparentsask.com She conducts online and offline workshops on parenting for schools and corporate organisations. She also conducts online and offline prenatal and infant care classes. She is a well-known thought-leader in parenting and an expert on play, learning and eating habits. She is the author of 7 books on parenting published by Juggernaut Books and her books are among their most read books. She is frequently quoted in national and international publications of repute for her empathetic and compassionate approach and her application of physiology and neuroscience to parenting.
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