The symptom: sore boobs
Tender breasts and nipples are often the first sign a baby’s on the way. It’ll feel similar to when you get your period (only worse).
The symptom: darkening areolas
This noticeable darkening around the nipples, caused by a hormone surge that affects the skin’s pigmentation, will stick around until after pregnancy.
The symptom: spotting
Light bleeding may occur, but it doesn’t mean you’re not pregnant. This is often just a sign that the fertilized egg has implanted itself in the uterine lining (its home for the next nine months!).
The symptom: no aunt flo
Once you miss a period, it’s time to whip out that pregnancy test!
The symptom: fatigue (we’re talking total exhaustion)
Increased progesterone levels will zap your energy -- especially in the beginning. Plus, your body is working overtime for baby and your hormones are going a bit haywire, so it’s no wonder you’re feeling completely drained.
The symptom: morning sickness
Nausea and vomiting (those hormones!) affect 85 percent of women, and most begin their puke-fest around week six.
The symptom: sensitive snout
Thanks to a boost in estrogen levels, you’ll experience a heightened sense of smell, a good excuse to make him take out the trash more often).
The symptom: cravings
Most women experience food cravings, particularly in the first trimester, when hormones jump. It’s your body’s way of saying, “Hey, I need more calories and energy.” Sweets and dairy (hello, ice cream!) tend to be the most popular contenders.
The symptom: full bladder
Your kidneys will have to work harder to flush out all those fluids, so you’ll have to go to the bathroom (very!) frequently.
The symptom: bloating
High levels of progesterone slow the digestive tract, resulting in swelling for some women.
-- The Nest Editors
Feb 14, 2011