Signs of Pregnancy

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There are multiple signs of pregnancy. Almost every organ system in the body can be involved.

Amenorrhea (Skipping a Period) as a Sign of Pregnancy
Amenorrhea is the most common sign of pregnancy. It is more reliable in women who have normal regular menstrual periods. The accuracy of this sign of pregnancy increases if a woman is at least 10 days late. This sign of pregnancy is less accurate in women with irregular menstrual periods.

Missing a menstrual period is not always a sign of pregnancy. Chronic illness and emotional disorders are other causes of a missed period.

Reliable Signs of Pregnancy
Some reliable signs of pregnancy include enlargement of the abdomen, changes in the size, consistency, and shape of the uterus, anatomical changes of the cervix, Braxton Hicks contractions, a ballottement of the uterus, physical outlining of the fetus, , and a positive pregnancy test.

Definitive Pregnancy Signs
The most consistent and reliable signs of pregnancy include identification of fetal heart action, fetal movement, and an ultrasound recognition of pregnancy.

General Pregnancy Signs
Skin changes, nausea and vomiting, constipation, spider angiomas of the skin, and hyperpigmentation of the skin are common. Common signs of pregnancy include fatigue, lassitude, varicose veins, hemorrhoids, heartburn, pica, profuse salivation, increased requirement for sleep, and headaches. If severe or abnormal headaches occur, if it is associated with visual changes, or if a headache does not resolve the healthcare provider should always be contacted. Women will often notice increase in hair growth during pregnancy. Sometimes abnormal gingivitis can develop in pregnant women. Urinary frequency is a common sign of pregnancy, however if burning or pain with urination develops a healthcare provider should be contacted. Increased vaginal discharge known as leucorrhea is common. Vaginal bleeding is not considered a sign of pregnancy, and should never be ignored.

The changes in the breast in pregnant women are often more evident in women who have never been pregnant. These changes include tingling and tenderness, increased in size, the development of increased pigmentation of the areola, and the development of striations. Other breast signs of pregnancy include the development of breast nodularity, nipple discharge, and prominent visible veins beneath the skin of the breast.

Signs of Pregnancy often do not lead directly to the underlying diagnosis and many Signs can be misleading. Please review all concerns and information found on this website with your health care provider.