Am I pregnant? Early signs of pregnancy
Pregnancy symptoms differ from woman to woman and pregnancy to pregnancy. Some women get symptoms within a week of conception and others may not get any at all.
There is no better guarantee than taking a test and confirming it with your doctor but if you think you might be pregnant, have a look at our early pregnancy symptoms guide.
A week after conception: Bleeding or 'spotting'
About a week after conception, the embryo pushes itself into the wall of the uterus (or womb). This causes some light bleeding or spots of blood to appear in your knickers. You may even get stomach cramps while the embryo is moving.
What else could it be? Your period (although some women still get light periods throughout their pregnancy), changes with the Pill; such as forgetting to take it or taking it during your seven-day break, an infection, or bleeding from sex.
- Get more info about bleeding during pregnancy
One to two weeks after conception: Tender breasts
As early as one to two weeks after conception you might notice a difference in your breasts. Your nipples might be sensitive to the touch, they may be sore or they may change shape and become swollen - meaning your bra might not fit as well as normal.
What else could it be? It could be your pill or you might be due on your period - many early signs of pregnancy are similar to when you're having a period or are due on.
Four to five weeks after conception: Missed period
This is the most common pregnancy symptom, and is usually the first one you might pick up on. After the embryo has attached itself to the wall of the uterus, the wall builds itself up so the embryo is well cushioned - rather than break down and cause a period.
What else could it be? Stress, changing your contraception or excessive weight gain or loss.
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nikki, 3 days [Offensive? Unsuitable? Report this comment.]
Hi, I have been on the patch for years now, and my periods have been so regular they were like clock work. a few weeks ago I had my regular period as normal, then the next week started again, and lasted 3 days. I am stressing about it because i am used to my periods being so regulated, Could i be pregnant? Please help.