Pregnancy Symptoms That Could Be Something Else

Some women find it hard to believe that other women can sail obliviously through the first few weeks (and even months) of pregnancy without noticing any obvious signs. But while feeling nauseous, tired, or having a late period are all symptoms of pregnancy, they could be due to other factors. So what are the signs of pregnancy that could be mistaken for something else? Or the symptoms of pregnancy you think you’ve noticed which could be caused by something else? Sickness Morning sickness (which we all know can appear at any time of the day or night) could be a symptom of pregnancy, but it could equally be caused by food poisoning, stress, or a stomach disorder. Pregnancy nausea typically kicks in two to eight weeks after conception. It’s a good idea to see your GP to find out the cause. Late period Yes, this is a sign of pregnancy, but a woman’s periods can be knocked out of sync by excessive weight gain or loss, overtiredness, fatigue, excessive exercising, a hormonal imbalance, stress, mistakes with birth control pills or breastfeeding. Tender breasts This is a fairly common first sign of pregnancy that can start as early as one week after conception. However women can also get sore breasts when their hormones are fluctuating, because of contraceptive pills or just before a period starts. Tiredness While tiredness is certainly an early sign of pregnancy it could be due to stress, illness or depression. When it occurs due to pregnancy it is caused by the rising levels of progesterone in the body at between one and six weeks pregnant. Frequent Headaches Higher oestrogen levels in the body can cause headaches for some pregnant women. Other causes of a headache could be dehydration, caffeine withdrawal, or eye strain. Cravings Some women know they are pregnant as soon as they start craving a particular food. But food cravings (particularly for salty, sweet or fatty foods) can be due to poor diet, stress, depression, or an imminent period. Peeing a lot The need to pee frequently usually begins about six to eight weeks after conception. But women with diabetes or urinary tract infections, or those taking diuretics to prevent bloating may also need to pee more often, so it's best to check with your doctor. Feeling movement You won’t feel your baby moving until at least week 16 (more likely week 20) so any “movement” in your tummy could be caused by gas or bowel contractions.