What are the symptoms and reactions in early pregnancy?

Nov 27, 2024 Source: Cainiu Health
Disease description:

I am currently preparing for pregnancy. May I ask, what are the symptoms and reactions in early pregnancy?

Doctor's answer (1)
Dr. Zhang Lu

In the early stages of pregnancy, a woman's body undergoes a series of physiological changes that may manifest as various symptoms and reactions. Common early pregnancy symptoms include:

1. Absence of menstruation: This is one of the most obvious early signs. If your menstrual cycle is usually regular and it is now delayed, it could indicate pregnancy.

2. Breast changes: The breasts may feel swollen, tender, or painful, and the nipples may darken in color, due to hormonal changes.

3. Frequent urination: As the growing uterus presses on the bladder, you may find yourself needing to use the restroom more frequently.

4. Mood swings: Hormonal fluctuations may lead to emotional changes, including anxiety, irritability, or unexplained crying.

5. General discomfort: Symptoms such as fatigue, drowsiness, and dizziness may occur, often accompanied by frequent urination, due to elevated hormone levels and the gradually enlarging uterus pressing on the bladder.

6. Gastrointestinal reactions: These include nausea, vomiting, and loss of appetite, caused by increased levels of human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) and progesterone, which reduce gastric acid secretion and slow gastrointestinal motility.

7. Genital tract changes: The vaginal muscle layer and mucous membranes thicken, vaginal discharge increases, and the cervix may appear bluish-purple.