Pregnancy Symptoms: What You Need to Know

Learn more about the most common pregnancy symptoms, early signs of pregnancy, and what you can expect during your journey in this comprehensive guide.

[Post updated April 2026]

Pregnancy can bring on a wide range of symptoms, some of which are more common than others. Morning sickness and breast tenderness, for example, are very common symptoms experienced by many women during early pregnancy. Fatigue is another common symptom many women experience; if this is something you are experiencing, then it’s important to listen to your body, put your feet up (when you can!), and relax as much as possible. You’re making another human, and it’s very tiring work!

Pregnancy symptoms can differ between women. While some experience only a few mild symptoms, others may have more severe symptoms that affect their daily lives. It’s important to be aware of the most common pregnancy symptoms so that you can know what to expect and when to reach out to your midwife or healthcare provider for a little extra support.

Every woman experiences pregnancy differently, and so it follows that every pregnancy will also come with different symptoms and no two are the same. However, there are some pregnancy symptoms that are more common than others. Here’s a look at some of the most common pregnancy symptoms and what you need to know about them.

Early Signs of Pregnancy: The Beginning of the Journey

For many, the first sign of pregnancy is a missed period. If you have a regular menstrual cycle, a delay in your period is often the most reliable indicator that conception has occurred. However, if you have irregular periods, it can be harder to tell based on the calendar alone.

During the very early stages, about six to twelve days after conception, the fertilised egg attaches to the lining of your uterus. This process is known as implantation. When the fertilised egg implants, it can sometimes cause light bleeding or light spotting, often referred to as implantation bleeding. This is often mistaken for a light period, but it is actually one of the earliest signs of early pregnancy.

The Only Way to Know for Sure

While you might notice physical changes or emotional changes early on, the only way to be certain is to take a home pregnancy test. These tests work by detecting the presence of human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG), a hormone produced after the fertilised egg attaches to the wall of your uterus.

For the most accurate results, it is best to wait until at least the first day of your missed period. Taking a test too early can lead to a false negative result because the hormone levels haven’t risen enough to be detected. If you get a negative result but your period still hasn’t arrived, wait a few days and try again, or visit a doctor’s office for a blood test. A blood test can detect pregnancy earlier than a urine test and provides a definitive positive result or negative result.

Most Common Pregnancy Symptoms Explained

Morning Sickness

This is one of the most well-known pregnancy symptoms, and for good reason – it affects a large amount of pregnant women. Morning sickness is often characterised by nausea and vomiting and can occur at any time of the day. Despite its name, morning sickness doesn’t discriminate based on the clock; it can happen at different times throughout the day or night (who decided to call it morning sickness?!)

While it’s generally not harmful, morning sickness can be debilitating for some women and need treatment. Some women experience a severe form called hyperemesis gravidarum, which involves extreme nausea and vomiting that can lead to dehydration. A lot of women try sipping a fresh mint tea or eating a ginger biscuit when they feel nauseous for some relief. Luckily for most, morning sickness starts to ease as you enter the second trimester. If you’re struggling with morning sickness, be sure to speak to your doctor or midwife about possible treatments.

You can read more about the difference between hyperemesis gravidarum and morning sickness here.

Fatigue and Tiredness

Feeling tired all the time is a common pregnancy symptom, particularly in the first trimester and third trimester. This fatigue is caused by the increased levels of pregnancy hormones in your body, specifically progesterone, and can be exacerbated by things like morning sickness and lack of sleep.

During the early weeks of pregnancy, your body is working overtime to build the placenta and support the growing fetus. It’s important to listen to your body and rest as much as possible if you are feeling exhausted. Try and get an early night if you can, or make time during the day to put your feet up and rest. If you’re feeling extremely tired, speak to your doctor or midwife, as this could be a sign of anaemia or other health conditions.

Breast Changes and Breast Tenderness

Breast tenderness is another pregnancy symptom that is caused by the increased levels of pregnancy hormones – oestrogen, progesterone, and prolactin – in your body. Breast changes can occur as early as one or two weeks after conception. Your breasts may feel fuller, heavier, or more sensitive to the touch.

This symptom of pregnancy is very common because your breasts begin to change very early to prepare for breastfeeding. The area around the nipples, the areola, may also darken. While tender breasts can be uncomfortable, this sensitivity usually decreases after the first few weeks as your body adjusts to the hormonal changes.

Frequent Urination

This pregnancy symptom is caused by an increase of the hormones progesterone and human chorionic gonadotropin, your kidneys working extra hard due to an increase of extra fluid in the body, and the pressure of your growing uterus on your bladder.

Even before the growing uterus is large enough to physically push on the bladder, the increased blood flow and hormone levels cause the kidneys to produce more urine. While it can be annoying, frequent urination is generally not harmful. However, it is important to be aware of urinary tract infections (UTIs), as these can be dangerous in pregnancy if left untreated. If you suspect you may have a UTI, which you can usually feel from a burning sensation while weeing or abdominal pain, then you must seek medical attention quickly.

Food Cravings and Food Aversions

Pregnancy cravings are caused by the hormonal changes in your body and a changing sense of smell and taste. You might find yourself desperately wanting a specific food you previously ignored, or suddenly developing food aversions to things you used to love. A heightened sense of smell often accompanies these changes, making certain aromas overwhelming.

While they can be intense, pregnancy cravings are generally harmless. If you have food cravings, try to choose healthy foods to satisfy them, though we appreciate this is easier said than done. Sometimes only a cheeseburger or a specific snack will do! Additionally, some women notice a metallic taste in their mouth, which is another result of shifting hormone levels.

Find out more about the most common food cravings and what they mean here.

Mood Swings and Emotional Changes

Hormonal changes can also cause significant mood swings. The surge in pregnancy hormones can affect the neurotransmitters in your brain that regulate mood. You may find yourself feeling happy one minute and angry or sad the next. These emotional changes are a normal part of the process, but if you’re struggling with your emotions or feel consistently overwhelmed, be sure to speak to your doctor or midwife as support is available.

Constipation and the Digestive System

This pregnancy symptom is caused by higher levels of progesterone in your body, which can slow down your digestive tract and the rest of your digestive system. This allows the body more time to absorb nutrients for the baby, but it can lead to discomfort for the mother.

While constipation is generally not harmful, it can be uncomfortable. To help manage this, ensure you are drinking plenty of water and eating fibre-rich foods. If you’re struggling with constipation, be sure to speak to your doctor or midwife about possible treatments or prenatal vitamins that are gentler on the stomach.

Headaches and Physical Changes

Pregnancy hormones can also cause headaches. Other factors like lack of sleep, stress, and caffeine withdrawal can also contribute to headaches. During the first trimester, the increase in blood volume and circulation can also trigger them. If you’re experiencing headaches, be sure to speak to your doctor or midwife to rule out any other possible causes, such as high blood pressure.

Heartburn and Indigestion

This pregnancy symptom is caused by the increased levels of pregnancy hormones in your body, which can relax the valve between your stomach and oesophagus. This allows stomach acid to rise up into your throat, causing heartburn. As the weeks of pregnancy progress, heartburn can also be caused by the baby growing and putting pressure on your stomach. Eating smaller, more frequent meals can sometimes help alleviate this discomfort.

Swelling (Oedema)

This symptom is usually experienced later on in pregnancy and is caused by the increased levels of fluid and blood vessels expanding in your body. While swelling in the feet and ankles is generally not harmful, it can be uncomfortable. If you’re experiencing severe swelling, swelling that is not going down, or new swelling in the face or hands, be sure to seek medical attention quickly as this can be a sign of pre-eclampsia that needs to be monitored very closely.

Understanding Your Body’s Changes

The symptoms of early pregnancy are often very similar to premenstrual symptoms. This is why many women don’t realise they are pregnant until they miss their period. However, as the hormone levels continue to rise, the signs of early pregnancy become more distinct.

Basal Body Temperature

For those tracking their fertility, an elevated basal body temperature that stays high for more than two weeks after ovulation is often an early sign of pregnancy. This is due to the sustained levels of progesterone required to maintain the lining of your uterus for the fertilised egg.

Vaginal Discharge and Bleeding

It is common to notice an increase in thin, milky white vaginal discharge during pregnancy. This is normal and helps prevent infections. However, if you experience significant vaginal bleeding or sharp abdominal pain, especially on one side of your body, you should contact your healthcare provider immediately. This could be a sign of an ectopic pregnancy, where the fertilised egg implants outside the uterus, such as in the fallopian tubes. An ectopic pregnancy is a medical emergency and requires a visit to the emergency room or a doctor’s office right away.

Maintaining a Healthy Pregnancy

Once you receive a positive pregnancy test, it is time to focus on prenatal care. Finding a trusted healthcare provider, whether it is a midwife or a doctor, is the best way to ensure both you and your baby stay healthy.

Prenatal Vitamins and Nutrition

Early in your pregnancy, or even before conception, taking folic acid is crucial. Folic acid helps prevent neural tube defects. Most healthcare providers recommend prenatal vitamins that include a variety of essential nutrients to support the physical changes your body is undergoing. You might also consider looking over your diet to ensure you’re eating a healthy diet during pregnancy, both for you and your baby.

Your First Prenatal Visit

During your first visit to the midwife you may undergo an exam and a series of tests to confirm the pregnancy and check your general health. This is a great time to discuss any medical conditions you have or any medications you are taking, as well as any birth control you were using prior to getting pregnant. Here’s what to expect from the pregnancy tests, screenings and scans in the UK.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is the very first sign of pregnancy?

For many, the first sign of pregnancy is a missed period. However, some women notice symptoms of early pregnancy such as implantation bleeding, breast tenderness, or a heightened sense of smell even before their period is due.

Can I have pregnancy symptoms and not be pregnant?

Yes. Many symptoms of pregnancy, like mood swings, bloating, and breast tenderness, are very similar to premenstrual symptoms or can be caused by other health conditions. A positive pregnancy test is the most reliable way to confirm.

How soon can I take a home pregnancy test?

The best way to get most accurate results is to wait until the first day of your missed period. While some tests claim to work earlier, taking a test too soon can result in a false negative.

Is shortness of breath normal in early pregnancy?

Shortness of breath can occur early on because your body needs more oxygen to support the pregnancy and because the hormone progesterone triggers you to breathe more frequently. However, if it is severe, you should always consult your healthcare provider.

Why do I have a metallic taste in my mouth?

This is a common early pregnancy symptom known as dysgeusia. It is caused by hormonal changes and usually resolves after the first trimester.

How do I know if my symptoms are normal?

While most common pregnancy symptoms are harmless, you should always listen to your body. If you experience severe abdominal pain, heavy vaginal bleeding, high blood pressure, or blurred vision, seek medical advice immediately.

While these are some of the most common pregnancy symptoms, it’s important to remember that every pregnancy is different. Some women sail through their first trimester with very few issues, while others may feel the full weight of hormonal changes immediately.

Pregnancy is an exciting time, but it can also be a difficult one. The good news is that most of these symptoms are temporary and are simply signs that your body is doing exactly what it needs to do to support a healthy pregnancy. If you’re experiencing severe pregnancy symptoms, or you’re worried about anything, be sure to speak to your midwife or doctor about them. Early and consistent prenatal care is the best way to ensure a smooth journey through the months of pregnancy.

This article is for informational purposes only and is not intended to replace the advice of a medical professional.