Medical Symptoms and Facts

The Common Symptoms of Pregnancy
Pregnancy is one event that can change a woman’s life and body. Most women undergo healthy, uncomplicated pregnancies and only have to change their normal routines during the last few weeks before the due date. Some women, however, have difficult, life-threatening pregnancies and have to change their daily activities right after the pregnancy test turns positive. In any case, the symptoms of pregnancy are not only limited to physical and physiological alterations in the body, but also psychological and emotional changes.

During the first trimester of the pregnancy, common symptoms of pregnancy include nausea or queasiness, headaches, abdominal pain, constipation, and mood swings. Women who have irregular menstrual cycles often mistake these symptoms as signs of an incoming period. The first trimester is usually the most troublesome as the body initially reacts to the hormonal changes. When the second trimester sets in, the body has adjusted and the symptoms remain mild, usually confined to only a growing belly and a few mood swings from time to time. The second semester is generally considered the most convenient stage of pregnancy. The third trimester brings about the biggest changes in terms of size. The areas around the nipples become darker as the breasts continue to grow larger. The hips widen to prepare for childbirth, the hands and feet swell, and emotions run higher than usual.
It is important that a woman who suspects she is pregnant visit a clinic right away to confirm her suspicions and, if the results are in the affirmative, seek advice for her health and that of her growing baby. After finding out, common symptoms of pregnancy include feelings of doubt, anxiety, fear, and even helplessness. Aside from the support of her partner, family, and friends, keeping a journal where she can sort out her thoughts and feelings can also help her cope with the pregnancy.