The surest way of knowing whether you are pregnant is to take a pregnancy test. That being said, there are a few early signs and symptoms that work as near-conclusive indicators of pregnancy. Although they may vary ever-so-slightly from one woman to another, most of the symptoms are consistent and have been noted for decades. Here are some common early symptoms of pregnancy:

1. Missed period

The biggest hint of pregnancy for women with a regular monthly menstrual cycle is a missed period. This is also the first sign of pregnancy and a common first-trimester symptom. However, this can be misleading in case of an irregular menstrual cycle, and a pregnancy test would be advised for confirmation.

2. Cramping and spotting

Nearly 10 to 14 days after conception, implantation bleeding begins. This happens due to the blastocyst, the embryo in its early stages of its development, sticks to the lining of the uterus. It is marked by bleeding, usually similar to menstrual bleeding, but relatively lesser. Abdominal cramping may also be associated with implantation bleeding, which mostly lasts for less than three days.

3. Nausea

Again, this differs from woman to woman but is another classic sign of pregnancy. It usually happens one month into the pregnancy and can strike almost at any time of the day. Many experts link the occurrence of nausea to estrogen and progesterone levels in the body, which rise during pregnancy. Vomit may or may not follow. Drinking plenty of water and consuming saltine crackers (the sodium bicarbonate in them helps adjust the acids in the stomach) in the morning can bring about a settling effect.

4. Irregular cravings

The onset of pregnancy drastically changes attraction to certain types of food. The sense of smell and taste undergoes transformation as well, with such sensitivity even leading to vomiting and nausea. Pregnant women have reported a strange metallic smell in their mouth, a shift in food cravings, reduced interest in smoking, and an increased sensitivity to the smell of cooking.

5. Fatigue

Another clear symptom of pregnancy displayed in the initial stage, fatigue, too, results from soaring progesterone levels. An easy way to curb this is to get enough sleep. Given that the body temperature during the early stages of pregnancy is higher, having a cool bedroom may also help manage fatigue.

6. Changes in breasts

A common occurrence in the early stages of pregnancy, breasts become more sensitive and sore, even giving rise to a swelling sensation. This primarily happens due to hormonal changes; and the body may take time to adjust to the same. Purchasing a supportive maternity bra can help provide comfort, while using hydrogel pads can aid in reducing nipple pain and soreness.

7. Increased urination

Frequent visits to the washroom could hint towards pregnancy. The body pumps more blood during pregnancy, forcing the kidneys to produce an increased amount of fluids that get accumulated in the bladder. Planning washroom breaks can be an effective way to avoid feeling the need to urinate frequently and unexpectedly.