What Are the First Signs of Being Pregnant?

Whether expanding your family was a conscious decision or an unexpected twist, the early signs of pregnancy remain the same. While only a positive pregnancy test can confirm that you are pregnant, some of the first signs you experience may indicate that you are about to get a positive test.

  1. Period Symptoms?

    • Many of the initial pregnancy symptoms -- like swollen and tender breasts, cramps and constipation -- can mirror impending menstruation symptoms, according to the Mayo Clinic article, "Symptoms of Pregnancy: What Happens Right Away." You may also notice spotting before your period is usually due, which may be a sign that the embryo has implanted in the uterine lining.

    Other Changes

    • In early pregnancy, you may find yourself hurrying to the bathroom to urinate more frequently than usual, according to the American Pregnancy Association. Your areolas, the skin surrounding your nipples, may darken. Experiencing nausea, or "morning sickness," as well as backaches or headaches, can also indicate that the stork is going to visit.

    Temperature and Mood

    • Mothers-to-be who chart their basal body temperatures to conceive may know that a bun is in the oven several days before getting a positive pregnancy test. If your basal body temperature stays elevated for 18 days in a row, you may be pregnant, according to Baby Center. Feeling fatigued or sleepy and having sudden shifts in your mood could also be early indicators of pregnancy, reports Mayo Clinic.

    Getting Confirmation

    • No matter how many symptoms you experience, only a positive home pregnancy test can confirm you are pregnant, according to Mayo Clinic. If you do get a positive test result, make an appointment with your doctor to confirm the results. In some cases, a home pregnancy test may give a false positive result. In other cases, you may experience pregnancy symptoms but get a false negative on a home pregnancy test. In those situations, a doctor may perform a blood test to confirm or rule out pregnancy.

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