Common Early Symptoms of Pregnancy
Pregnancy symptoms vary from person to person, but here are the most common early signs:
- Missed Period – One of the earliest and most obvious signs.
- Nausea (Morning Sickness) – Can occur any time of the day, starting around 4-6 weeks.
- Breast Tenderness – Breasts may feel sore, swollen, or tingly.
- Fatigue – Feeling unusually tired due to hormonal changes.
- Frequent Urination – Increased blood flow causes more trips to the bathroom.
- Food Cravings or Aversions – Sudden dislike or craving for certain foods.
- Mood Swings – Emotional changes due to rising hormone levels.
- Light Spotting (Implantation Bleeding) – Light bleeding around 6-12 days after ovulation.
- Bloating – Hormonal changes may cause bloating similar to PMS.
- Dizziness or Fainting – Caused by changes in blood pressure or blood sugar.
When to Take a Pregnancy Test
- Best Time: Take a test at least one week after your missed period for the most accurate result.
- Earliest Time: Some tests can detect pregnancy as early as 5-6 days before your missed period, but results are less reliable.
- Best Time of Day: Use first-morning urine when hCG (pregnancy hormone) is most concentrated.
Healthy Pregnancy Diet: What to Eat & Avoid
Eating a balanced diet during pregnancy is essential for your baby's growth and your well-being. Here’s a breakdown of the best foods to eat and what to avoid.
Foods to Eat
1. Protein-Rich Foods
- Lean meats (chicken, turkey, beef)
- Eggs
- Fish (low in mercury, like salmon)
- Tofu, beans, and lentils
- Dairy (yogurt, cheese, milk)
2. Fruits & Vegetables
- Dark leafy greens (spinach, kale) – rich in folic acid
- Citrus fruits (oranges, lemons) – high in vitamin C
- Bananas – help with nausea and potassium levels
- Berries – packed with antioxidants
- Carrots, bell peppers – good for vision and immunity
3. Whole Grains & Fiber
- Brown rice, quinoa, whole wheat bread
- Oats – great for digestion
- Lentils and beans – high in fiber, prevent constipation
4. Healthy Fats
- Avocados – good for brain development
- Nuts & seeds (almonds, walnuts, chia seeds)
- Olive oil – healthy for heart and brain development
5. Hydration
- Drink 8-12 glasses of water daily
- Milk and fresh juices are good alternatives
- Limit caffeine to 200 mg per day (about one small cup of coffee)
Foods to Avoid
- Raw or Undercooked Meat & Eggs – Risk of bacteria (salmonella, listeria)
- High-Mercury Fish – Avoid shark, swordfish, king mackerel
- Unpasteurized Dairy & Juices – Risk of listeria infection
- Deli Meats & Processed Foods – May contain harmful bacteria
- Too Much Caffeine – Can increase risk of low birth weight
- Alcohol & Smoking – Harmful for baby's development