A First-Time Pregnancy Guide

Understanding how pregnancy works is the first step in trying to conceive! We'll introduce the basic knowledge about pregnancy in an easy-to-understand way.

I might be pregnant?
9 things you might feel in early pregnancy

If you think you might be pregnant, the first step is to take a pregnancy test. Even if the test is negative, retest if your period is late. Physical changes in early pregnancy vary from person to person. Some people experience no symptoms at all. First, check the list below to see if any of the symptoms apply to you, and then visit a clinic.

9 things you might feel in early pregnancy

Numerous changes can occur in early pregnancy, including changes in vaginal discharge, taste and smell, changes in breasts and nipples, drowsiness, headaches, abdominal pain, and lower back pain. Here are nine of the most common changes.

My vaginal discharge has changed.

Vaginal discharge can change in consistency and odor. During pregnancy, it may become clear and watery, and may lose its odor. Rarely, some women may experience blood in their discharge, causing it to turn brown. This is a change caused by increased secretion of two female hormones: estrogen and progesterone.

I have a headache.

Headaches are a common symptom in early pregnancy. During pregnancy, the body temperature remains high, sometimes rising by about one degree Celsius. Some women experience symptoms similar to a cold, such as headaches, fatigue, and a runny nose. It's important to be careful not to mistakenly take cold medicine. Early pregnancy is a crucial period when the baby's brain, nervous system, and other central organs are developing. If you are taking any medication, consult your doctor.

I feel sleepy day and night.

Even if you get plenty of sleep, you may still feel constantly sleepy, regardless of whether it's day or night. This is said to be due to the sleep-inducing effects of progesterone.

There are changes in the breasts and nipples.

Breast tenderness and increased nipple sensitivity are also common. Some people experience nipple pain even from slight friction from clothing.

My sense of taste and smell has changed.

You may find that foods you previously enjoyed are no longer palatable, and even your own saliva can feel unpleasant. You may also become more sensitive to smells. Many odors that you never noticed before may become unbearable.

I have a backache.

Lower back pain can occur even in the early stages of pregnancy when the belly is not yet large. This is due to the effects of a hormone called relaxin, which loosens ligaments and joints. This can lead to pelvic misalignment, resulting in lower back pain.

I often get stomach aches.

You may experience sharp, stabbing pains or dull aches, similar to menstrual cramps. During pregnancy, the uterus gradually expands. This compresses the inside of the uterus, making you more prone to pain, especially in the lower abdomen where the uterus is located.

My skin has become more prone to breakouts.

During pregnancy, progesterone levels surge, disrupting the hormonal balance. This can lead to acne, breakouts, and other skin problems.

My basal body temperature remains high.

Ovulation occurs about 14 days after the start of menstruation, triggering the "high temperature phase." This phase lasts for about two weeks, after which, if you are not pregnant, menstruation will begin and you will enter the "low temperature phase." If you are pregnant, the "high temperature phase" will continue. The prolonged "high temperature phase" is due to the release of progesterone. Your body temperature will be about 1 degree Celsius higher than normal, which may cause you to feel constantly tired.

Reference: Terumo Corporation website, "Let's talk to your body with basal body temperature"

summary

Early pregnancy symptoms vary from person to person. Some women experience no symptoms at all and have a smooth pregnancy, while others suffer from morning sickness from the beginning until just before delivery. If you have several days of feeling unwell, both your body and mind tend to be stressed. The key to a comfortable pregnancy is to incorporate things you enjoy and things that help you relax as much as possible each day.
Symptoms vary from person to person, and some women may not experience any early pregnancy symptoms. If you have even the slightest suspicion that you might be pregnant, be sure to get a definitive diagnosis at a clinic.