Early pregnancy symptoms

Early pregnancy symptoms

There are various pregnancy symptoms that can indicate you might be pregnant. They differ from woman to woman, and from pregnancy to pregnancy. If you're pregnant, you may notice one or more of these symptoms. Don't worry; you're unlikely to get them all at once. Equally, you shouldn't worry if you don't experience any of them. It's perfectly possible to be pregnant without noticing any of the 'classic' signs of pregnancy listed below.

Classic Symptoms of Pregnancy

Missed period. This is the earliest and most reliable sign if you have a regular monthly cycle. Though it is possible to have a little light bleeding or spotting around the time you expected your period, even if you're pregnant.

If you don't have a regular cycle, you may notice some of the other pregnancy symptoms before you notice a missed period.

Feeling tired. You may feel unusually tired in the first few weeks of pregnancy. This is probably due to rising levels of the hormone progesterone.

Feeling sick. You may start feeling sick, and even vomit, between about the 2nd and 8th week of pregnancy. Although this is often called 'morning sickness' it can happen to you at any time of the day or night.

Changes in your breasts. You may notice your breasts getting larger, feeling tender, or tingling (the way some women's breasts do just before they get their period) in the early weeks of pregnancy. In addition, the veins on your breasts may show up more and your nipples may get darker.

Going to the loo more often. About 6-8 weeks after conception you may find that you have to get up in the night to go to the loo. Some pregnant women also find that they 'leak' a bit when they cough, laugh or sneeze.

Mood swings and stress. You may feel rapid changes in mood in the early stages of pregnancy, and even start to cry sometimes, without knowing why. This is probably because of the changes in hormone levels taking place in your body.

Changing tastes in food. You may find you go off certain things like tea, coffee or fatty food. Some women also feel cravings for types of food they don't usually like.

Frozen embryo transfer (FET)/ Donor egg cycle

Preparation before drug protocol begins

• This is what we refer to as the preconception phase.

• It is during this time we hope to optimize your reproductive health

• We treat holistically which means we take into account your physical, emotional and spiritual aspect. We do not only focus on regulating the menstrual cycle to alleviate any pain or discomfort before and during one s cycle, we also want to improve all systems of your body and mind. If you are sleeping well, full of vitality, proper digestion and elimination and healthy sense of self then all systems will work more efficiently including your reproductive system. This can be accomplished by treating some of the subtle imbalances in the body mind and spirit via acupuncture, herbs, supplements, diet, and lifestyle

During estrogen lining growth phase

• Two acupuncture treatments/week * Increase blood flow to uterus - better lining then better chance of implantation

• Treat side effects to medications

• Relax - Studies have shown how stress can negatively impact fertility and IVF success. Studies have also shown how acupuncture can reduce the effects of stress and therefore optimize your IVF/ICSI cycle

Transfer day (FET/donor egg)

• Acupuncture treatment immediately before and after day 3 embryo transfer

• For blastocyst transfer- acupuncture treatment three days after retrieval and again on day 5 before transfer of blastocyst (No treatment immediately after transfer).

Implantation to pregnancy test

• Acupuncture treatment 5-10 days after transfer

• Assist with implantation and support of fetus development

Am I pregnant?

My boyfriend and I had sex like six months ago and I had my period twice, but I skipped this last one and i'm really worried because I think I might be pregnant. Help, am I pregnant?

Answer
I don't think so, but it might not hurt to get tested. By six months you should be well aware of the pregnancy, unless you somehow bypassed all of the symptoms entirely. Your boobs would have swollen, you might have gotten morning sickness, you would have gotten bigger...something. Plus, the two periods are a big sign that you are not pregnant, although it is possible to have a period while you are pregnant. It just isn't likely. If you're really worried though, go get a test from Wal-Mart and take it. That's a simple way to solve your

How to Date a Pregnant Woman

The dating world can be a tough one. It doesn’t get any easier just because you are pregnant. If anything it gets tougher. Some men will date a woman only if she is pregnant, while other men will not date a woman at all if she is pregnant, even if the child is theirs. If you are one of those understanding men who is interested in the person behind the pregnant belly, then here are a few tips that may help your relationship go a little smoother.

Realize it’s okay to date a pregnant woman

First, there is no rule against dating a pregnant woman. This is decision is left up to the mom-to-be. If she does, however, deem you worthy of a relationship while she is pregnant, you should feel honored. This means that she believes that you could be a good role model for her child. You must also keep in mind; most single pregnant women are not looking for a casual fling. They do not have the luxury of only thinking of themselves. They must now think about what is best for their baby as well. So, you may want to have a discussion regarding how active you are going to be in this child’s life. Depending on the situation with the father, you may want to have this conversation earlier or later in the pregnancy. Regardless of when, you should be open and honest about what you are emotionally capable of doing.

Understand the mood swings

Second, most pregnant women are not crazy, as most men thing. Also, most arguments that could occur due to hormonal fluctuations can be resolved rather quickly with an understanding and supportive partner. However, that is not to say that there will not be times when she is completely unreasonable over what seems to you like a “small issue.” This may be a good time to go for a walk, go watch a movie together, or take her for some baby “shopping therapy.” Spend some quality time together away from whatever stressor has set her emotions off. Often times, something as simple as a small stuffed animal for the baby will at least buy you out of the “doghouse.” Try to remember these are only fluctuations and she will be back to normal soon. In this case, patience and understanding are the best virtues you can exhibit.

Respect her health and the baby’s

Next, her health and the baby’s health need to be her #1 priority. If you are going to be a long-term part of their lives, their health should be a priority to you as well. This may mean having to avoid certain activities, because of the environment. Conversely, there may be activities that she will want you to do with her, such as exercising or walking. Depending on the stage of the relationship, she may also ask that you go to doctor’s appointments or Lamaze classes with her. Remember, only do what you are comfortable with; if however, you intend on this becoming a long-term relationship after the baby is born, it is important to be as supportive as you can. This is even more important if there is no father in sight.

Deal with some emotional issues

Like most single mothers, she may have also developed some trust and abandonment issues that you may have to overcome together. This can be a particular hard road, requiring a lot of reassurance on your part. Although most couples don’t start out with a “ready-made” family, this could become the most important and satisfying relationship you could ever have.

The Basis of the Justisse Method

Cervical Mucus Cycle Wheel

The basis of the Justisse Method is the observation of cervical mucus in the menstrual cycle. Basal body temperature, cervical changes, and other cycle events and signs of fertility are used to support the information provided by cervical mucus observations. All events and signs are important in understanding reproductive health and fertility.

The 1st day of the cycle is the 1st day of menstruation. Menstrual flow lasts about three to seven days. A healthy menstrual flow begins as heavy or moderate and subsides to light or very light.

After menstruation, you will usually notice a few days where the sensation at the vulva is and no cervical mucus is observed (except in shorter cycles).

After those dry days, you may notice some discharge at the vulva. You may notice it on your undergarments or as a sensation of extra smoothness or lubrication when you wipe yourself after going to the bathroom. You may first notice a sticky white mucus discharge. After a few days, the discharge becomes clear and/or stretchy, accompanied by a sensation of lubrication or slipperiness at the vulva. The last day of mucus that is clear, stretchy, or lubricative is called the Peak Day.

Following the Peak Day, there is a dramatic change. The mucus changes to a sticky white discharge or disappears altogether. The sensation at the vulva returns to dry. From the 4th day after peak until the beginning of the next menstrual flow, you will notice you are dry.

Fertile days include the menstrual flow and all mucus days, from the first day mucus appears through to the Peak Day and for 3 days following.

Infertile days include the dry days after menstruation and from the fourth day after Peak Day until the beginning of the next menstruation.

In the diagram of the “cervical mucus cycle wheel” you will notice that the days between the Peak Day and the onset of menstruation are numbered from 1 to 14. No numbers appear from the start of menstruation and up to and including the Peak Day. This is because the phase before Peak Day may vary in length. The phase after Peak Day is stable in length. Fourteen (14) days is the average length of this post-Peak-phase. Peak Day correlates very closely with the time of ovulation.

Occasionally women experience a cycle that is shorter cycle than they would normally expect. When this happens, ovulation may occur earlier in the cycle. The clue to an early ovulation is that there are no dry days following menstruation. Instead, mucus will be present during the light and very light days of menstrual flow. Taking this possibility into consideration, and being aware that you cannot predict when a cycle will be short, the menstrual flow is considered fertile. However, the light and very light days of the menstrual flow can be observed for mucus as any other day. If there is no mucus on the light and very light days then these days are infertile.

All days of menstruation are considered fertile until a woman can confidently identify her light days of bleeding as dry. As well, she must be confident that her bleeding is a true menstrual bleed and not another type of bleeding. When she is confident of these two things then she may consider days 1-5 (the first 5 days) of her menstrual cycle as infertile. Such confidence generally comes after having charted for at least one year.

The Count of 3 after Peak Day is necessary because ovulation can possibly occur on those days. On average, ovulation occurs on Peak Day. However, statistics have shown that ovulation can occur on the first, second or third day after peak, or the day before Peak. Even though you are dry on the days after peak your vaginal environment is still alkaline enough to support sperm life. Thus if ovulation were to occur on one of those dry days within the Count of 3 intercourse might result in a pregnancy. That is why those days are considered fertile, and it is important for a woman who is avoiding pregnancy or wanting to become pregnant to consider this.

Pregnancy Complications

Pregnancy complications are difficult events, or happenings, that can take place in different phases of a pregnancy. Some actually happen after you give birth. Many times, they are unpredictable. Knowing all possible risk factors that may apply to your own health during your pregnancy is a surefire way to help prevent possible complications.

Placenta previa is a rare, but serious condition that can occur. This is when the cervix is blocked by the placenta. It can be harmful to both mother and child. There are a variety of problems that you can encounter while pregnant. Some are related to genetics; such as Trisomy, and others in which can be treated if detected early enough. Iron deficiency anemia in pregnancy is a pregnancy complication that should be tested starting from your first prenatal visit, and continue on throughout. Anxiety during pregnancy is a common complication that can start as early as conception.

Early Pregnancy Symptoms

Symptom	When It Occurs	What Causes It to Occur During Pregnancy	Other Possible Causes
A missed period	Around the time that your period is due.	Rising levels of progesterone fully suppress your menstrual period.	Jet lag, extreme weight loss or gain, a change in climate, a chronic disease such as diabetes or tuberculosis, severe illness, surgery, shock, bereavement, or other sources of stress.
A lighter-than-average period	Around the time that your period is due.	Your progesterone levels are rising, but they are still not high enough to fully suppress your menstrual period.	May also be experienced by birth control pill users.
A small amount of spotting	Approximately 1 week after conception.	This type of spotting may occur when the fertilized egg implants in the uterine wall about a week after conception has occurred.	May be experienced by users of birth control pills and women with fibroids or infections. Some women routinely experience midcycle spotting.
Abdominal cramping (periodlike cramping in the lower abdomen and pelvis and/or bloating and gassiness)	Around the time that your period is due.	Abdominal cramping may be triggered by the hormonal changes of early pregnancy. Some women describe this cramping as a feeling like their period is about to start.	PMS, constipation, irritable bowel syndrome.
Breast tenderness and enlargement	Breast tenderness can set in as early as a few days after conception; It doesn't typically last beyond the first trimester.	Breast tenderness and enlargement are caused by the hormonal changes of early pregnancy. You may also notice some changes to the appearance of your breasts: the areola may begin to darken and the tiny glands on the areola may begin to enlarge.	Premenstrual syndrome (PMS), excessive caffeine intake, or fibrocystic breast disease.
Morning sickness (a catchall term that is used to describe everything from mild nausea to severe vomiting that can lead to dehydration)	2 to 8 weeks after conception.	Scientists believe that morning sickness is somehow linked to high levels of progesterone and human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG), but they aren't sure of the particular mechanisms involved.	Flu, food poisoning, or other illnesses.
Food aversions and cravings (e.g., a metallic taste in the mouth and/or a craving for certain types of foods)	2 to 8 weeks after conception.	Food aversions and cravings are triggered by the hormonal changes of early pregnancy.	Poor diet, stress, or PMS.
Heightened sense of smell	2 to 8 weeks after conception.	The heightened sense of smell that many pregnant women experience is the result of the hormonal changes of early pregnancy.	Illness.
Increased need to urinate	As early as 2 to 3 weeks after conception.	The increased need to urinate is triggered by increased blood flow intake.	A urinary tract infection, uterine fibroids, or excessive caffeine to the pelvic region and by the production of human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) during early pregnancy.
Constipation	As early as 2 to 3 weeks after conception	Progesterone relaxes the intestinal muscles, resulting in varying degrees of constipation.	Inadequate intake of high-fiber foods or inadequate consumption of fluids.

Bleeding in the First Half of Pregnancy

Bleeding in the First Half of Pregnancy:

Bleeding in pregnancy can be extremely alarming upon first finding out that we are expecting. Here are some possible reasons for spotting during early pregnancy.

• Implantation Bleeding. A normal symptom of early pregnancy. Occurs 5-12 days after conception. Implantation is experienced differently for each woman.

• Infection in the pelvic cavity or urinary tract.

• Bleeding after Intercourse. The cervix is very sensitive. Normal intercourse does not cause a miscarriage. Be sure you know what can contribute to miscarriage ahead of time. Discontinue intercourse until you consult your physician if you experience any amount of vaginal bleeding after intercourse to prevent further irritation.

Bleeding in the Second Half of Pregnancy:
Any bleeding in pregnancy can be scary. In the second half of pregnancy, minor bleeding can be caused by an inflamed cervix or growths on the cervix. Bleeding in the late part may also pose a threat to the health of the fetus or the mother. Be sure to be in touch with your physician if you experience any bleeding in the second or third trimester of pregnancy. All bleeding in pregnancy should be reported to your doctor.

Placental or Placenta Abruption:
When the placenta detaches from the uterine wall before or during labor, placental abruption occurs. This happens to 1% of pregnant woman and usually occurs during the last 12 weeks of pregnancy.

What are the signs of Placental Abruption?
- Bleeding
- Pain in stomach

Who is at risk for Placental Abruption?
- Women over the age of 35
- Women who have already had children
- Women who have had an abruption in the past
- Women who have sickle cell anemia
- Women who have high blood pressure
- Women who have had trauma or injuries to their stomach area
- Woman who use drugs/cocaine

Placenta Previa:
When the placenta lies low in the uterus, placenta previa is occuring. This is a serious condition that requires immediate care. Positioning of the placenta will often partially or completely cover the cervix. Placenta previa occurs in 1 in 200 pregnancies. There usually is no pain associated with placenta previa.

Who is at risk for Placenta Previa?
- Women who have already had children
- Women who have had a previous cesarean birth
- Women who have had previous surgery on uterus
- Women who are pregnant with multiples

Preterm Labor:
Vaginal bleeding in pregnancy can be a sign of labor. A few weeks before labor starts, the mucus plug may dislodge and pass. This is usually made up of mucus and blood. When this happens, this can mean that preterm labor may begin in the very near future. Preterm labor occurs before the 37th week of pregnancy.

What are the signs of Preterm Labor?
- Vaginal discharge. This can be watery, mucus, or bloody.
- Lower abdominal/ pelvic pressure
- Low, dull backache
- Cramping in stomach either with or without diarrhea
- Consistent Uterine tightening or contractions

How can you prevent a future unwanted pregnancy?

About 85% of sexually active women who do not use contraceptives become pregnant within a year. A woman can become pregnant while breastfeeding, from about 10 days after childbirth, and even during her menstruation. Withdrawal of the penis prior to ejaculation and periodic abstinence does not prevent pregnancy or spread of sexually transmitted diseases. Here you can read more about several forms of contraceptives.

You can prevent an unwanted pregnancy with:

• Total Abstinence
• Use of contraceptives
  

If you are sexually active and do not want to get pregnant, always use contraception.

Methods of Contraception:
No method of contraception gives 100% protection.
The male latex condom is the only contraceptive method considered highly effective in reducing the risk of sexually transmitted diseases (STD's). Birth control pills, Implant and IUDs do not protect against STD infection.

For the Woman
DIAPHRAGM is a rubber disk with a flexible rim that covers the cervix and must be used together with spermicide. It is available by prescription only and must be fitted for size by a health professional. The diaphragm protects for six hours and should be left in place for at least six hours after intercourse but not for longer than a total of 24 hours.

ORAL CONTRACEPTIVES protect against pregnancy by the combined actions of the hormones estrogens and progestin. The hormones prevent ovulation. The pills have to be taken every day as directed and do not work after vomiting or diarrhoea. Side effects of the pill can be nausea, headache, breast tenderness, weight gain, irregular bleeding, and depression.

DEPO-PROVERA is a hormonal contraceptive injected into a muscle on the arm or buttock every three months. The injection must be repeated every 3 months. The menstruation can become irregular and sometimes even absent.

IMPLANTS (such as Norplant or implanon) are made up of small rubber rods, which are surgically implanted under the skin of the upper arm, where they release the contraceptive steroid levonorgestrel. Their protection lasts from 3 to 5 years. Side effects include menstrual cycle changes, weight gain, breast tenderness and loss of bone mass.

IUD is a T-shaped device inserted into the uterus by a health-care professional. The IUD can remain in place for 5- 10 years. IUD’s have one of the lowest failure rates of contraceptive method. Sometimes the IUD can be expelled and a woman has to check each month after her period with her finger if she can still feel the threads of the IUD. Other side effects can include abnormal bleeding and cramps, but this usually only occurs during and immediately after insertion.

FEMALE STERILIZATION is done surgically. The tubes are ligated, preventing the egg-cells from encountering the sperm cells and preventing any future pregnancies. It is a permanent form of contraception.

EMERGENCY CONTRACEPTION must be taken within 72 hours of unprotected sex in order to prevent an unplanned pregnancy. A woman must take 1 Norlevo and a second pill 12 to 24 hours later. Beside Norlevo, most combination (estrogens and progesterone) birth control pills can also be used. Take within 72 hours of unprotected sex. One dose 100 µg ethinylestradiol + 500 µg levonorgestrel (2-4 birth control pills), 12 hours later a second dose.

MORNING-AFTER IUD must be inserted within 5 days of unprotected intercourse. The IUD can stay for 5 to 10 years.
For the Man

CONDOMS are usually made from latex rubber and can be used only once. Some have spermicide added to kill sperm. They act as a mechanical barrier, preventing direct vaginal contact with semen, infectious genital discharges, and genital lesions. Condoms are the most effective method for reducing the risk of infection from the viruses that cause AIDS and other sexually transmitted diseases (STD’s). It is important to put a condom on properly before intercourse

MALE STERILIZATION also known as vasectomy, is a quick operation performed under local anaesthesia with possible minor postsurgical complications, such as bleeding or infection. The ability to get an erection and an ejaculation does not disappear. The sperm cells are just a very small part (1%) of the fluid and a man will not notice any difference in ejaculation. The body will absorb the sperm cells.

Rates of Effectiveness of Different Contraceptives:

Estimated Effectiveness
Male Latex Condom 86%
Female Condom 79%
Diaphragm with Spermicide 80%
Oral Contraceptives Over 95%
Injection (Depo-Provera) Over 99%
Implant (Norplant, Implanon) Over 99%
IUD (Intrauterine Device) 98-99%
Surgical Sterilisation Over 99%
Emergency Contraceptives 75%

Mifepristone

Mifepristone is a medication that blocks the action of the hormone progesterone. Progesterone is needed to sustain a pregnancy. Mifepristone has been used, in combination with other medications called prostaglandins, for medical abortion since 1988 in France and China, and since the early 1990's in the United Kingdom and Sweden. It has been more recently licensed in nine other European countries and Israel. In September 2001, Mifepristone was approved for distribution in New Zealand. Millions of women worldwide have safely used mifepristone regimens to end their pregnancies.
How mifepristone works to end pregnancy

Mifepristone blocks the action of progesterone, which is needed to sustain a pregnancy. This results in:

• Changes in the uterine lining and detachment of the pregnancy,

• Softening and opening of the cervix,

• Increased uterine sensitivity to prostaglandin.

Mifepristone is used in combination with another medication, a prostaglandin analogue called misoprostol. Misoprostol causes the uterus to contract, and helps the pregnancy tissue to pass.
How effective is the combination of mifepristone and misoprostol in terminating an early pregnancy?

Approximately 95% of women will have a complete abortion when using mifepristone/misoprostol up to 49 days after the start of the last menstrual period. The remaining women will need a suction abortion either because of ongoing or excessive bleeding, an incomplete abortion (tissue remains in the uterus but there is no growing embryo), or an ongoing pregnancy (a viable growing pregnancy, which occurs in less than 1% of cases).
Treatment regimen with mifepristone/misoprostol

Clinical studies have shown that several variations in mifepristone/misoprostol treatment regimens are safe and effective. Generally, however, once a woman has decided to have a medical abortion, there are three steps in the process of a medical abortion:
Step One

• A medical history is taken and a clinical exam and lab tests are performed.

• Counselling is completed and informed consent is obtained.

• If eligible for medical abortion, the woman swallows the mifepristone pill(s).

Step Two

• This step takes place about two days after step 1.

• Unless abortion has occurred and has been confirmed by the clinician, the woman uses misoprostol. Misoprostol tablets may be swallowed or inserted into the vagina, depending on the treatment regimen.

Step Three

• This step takes place approximately 11-17 days after step 2.

• The clinician evaluates the woman to confirm a complete abortion. It is essential for women to return to the office/clinic to confirm that the abortion is complete.

• If there is an ongoing pregnancy, a suction abortion should be performed.

• If there is an incomplete abortion, the clinician will discuss possible treatment options with the woman. These may include waiting and re-evaluating for complete abortion in a number of days or performing a suction abortion.

Possible side effects of a mifepristone abortion

Side effects, such as pain, cramping and vaginal bleeding, result from the abortion process itself, and are therefore expected with a medical abortion. Other side effects of the medications themselves may include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, chills, or fever. Complications are rare, but may include excessive vaginal bleeding requiring transfusion , incomplete abortion or ongoing pregnancy which requires a suction abortion .
What women can expect from a mifepristone abortion

• Medical abortion with mifepristone/misoprostol requires at least two visits to a doctor's office or clinic.

• Approximately 95% of women using mifepristone/misoprostol up to 49 days since the last menstrual period will have a complete medical abortion.

• Approximately two-thirds of women will have a complete medical abortion within 4 hours of using the misoprostol.

• Approximately 90% of women will have a complete medical abortion within 24 hours of using the misoprostol.

• Complete abortion generally occurs more quickly when misoprostol is used vaginally rather than orally.

• On average, women may expect to have bleeding and/or spotting for 9-16 days.

• Women may pass clots, ranging in size.

• Some women may see grayish pregnancy tissue.

• If the medications fail to end the pregnancy, a suction abortion should be performed. For this reason, a woman who chooses medical abortion must be willing to have a suction abortion if needed.

Early signs of pregnancy

If you are in tune with your body, you may notice certain signs that you are pregnant soon after conception. However, most women won’t experience any early pregnancy symptoms until the fertilised egg attaches itself to the uterine wall, several days after conception. Others may notice no signs of pregnancy for weeks until they miss their period. You may experience all, some, or none of these signs of pregnancy.

From 1 week after ovulation

Implantation Bleeding
This can be one of the earliest symptoms of pregnancy, a slight staining of a pink or brown colour. It can occur on about day 6 - 12 after conception as the egg attaches itself to the uterine wall. You may also experience some spotting and cramps.

Light bleeding may also occur for other reasons, like menstruation or an infection.

Rising basal body temperature (BBT)
If you have been measuring your basal body temperature, you may notice a rise in temperature 6 -8 days after conception. This is the most consistant early sign of pregnancy, but as all signs if may not occur.

Tender/swollen breasts
If you are pregnant, your breasts may become increasingly tender, similar to the way they feel before your period. This can occur 1 - 2 weks after conception.

Fatigue/Tiredness
Feeling tired or more fatigued is a pregnancy sign which may start as early as the first week after conception.

Backaches
Lower backaches may be a symptom that occurs early in pregnancy.


From 2 weeks after conception

Missing menstruation
If you have regular periods, a missing period is one of the surest signs of pregnancy - prompting women to take a pregnancy test.

Food cravings
Food cravings sometimes can be a sign of pregnancy. Don’t rely on them as a sure symptom as it could be all in your head, or even a sign that your body is low on a particular nutrient.

Altered sense of taste
You may notice that your sense of taste changes. Some women say they have a metallic taste in their mouth, others that they cannot stand the taste of coffee, tea, or a food they usually like.

Frequent urination
Once the embryo implants and begins producing the hormone human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG), you may need to go to the bathroom more often.

Of course, the surest way to find out is by purchasing Pregnancy Tests. They can be used from up to three days before your period is expected.

Pre-Eclampsia in Pregnancy

Pre Eclampsia is the most common serious medical disorder of human pregnancy. It can affect both the mother and her unborn baby. It usually arises during the second half of pregnancy, and can even occur some days after delivery.

In the mother, it can cause several problems of which she may be unaware – such as high blood pressure (hypertension), leakage of protein into the urine (proteinuria), thinning of the blood (coagulopathy) and liver dysfunction. Occasionally, Pre Eclampsia can lead to convulsions (fits), a serious complication known as eclampsia. Also, when a pregnancy is complicated by PE, the baby may grow more slowly than normal in the womb or suffer a potentially harmful oxygen deficiency.
How Common Is Pre Eclampsia?

Pre Eclampsia can affect as many as 10% of pregnancies, which makes it one of the most common pregnancy complications. It occurs more often in first pregnancies. Occasionally, women who have suffered it once find that it recurs in one or more subsequent pregnancies, and rarely a woman who has not experienced it in earlier pregnancies may develop it in a subsequent pregnancy.
What Is The Cause Of Pre Eclampsia?

The precise cause of Pre Eclampsia is unknown. However, genetic factors are probably involved, given women whose mothers and/or sisters have suffered Pre Eclampsia are at increased risk of the disease themselves. There is good evidence that the placenta is centrally involved in the development of Pre Eclampsia.

During pregnancy, the placenta requires a large blood supply from the mother to sustain the growing baby. It seems that in Pre Eclampsia the placenta does not receive sufficient maternal blood for its requirements. When this occurs, damage to the mother’s blood vessels follows, the result of which is increasing blood pressure. Kidney function is also disturbed and blood proteins leak from the mother’s circulation through the kidney into the urine. As Pre Eclampsia worsens, other organs are affected, including the mother’s liver, lungs, brain, heart and blood clotting system. Dangerous complications such as eclampsia (convulsions), cerebral haemorrhage (stroke), pulmonary oedema (fluid in the lungs from heart failure), kidney failure, liver damage and thinning of the blood (disseminated intravascularcoagulation) can occur in serious cases. However, these complications are fortunately rare.
How can Pre Eclampsia be detected and what are the symptoms?

A combination of rising blood pressure and protein in the urine can suggest Pre Eclampsia may be developing. As yet, there is no precise diagnostic test for Pre Eclampsia. However, if a previously healthy pregnant woman develops high blood pressure and proteinuria in the latter half of her pregnancy, then the diagnosis is almost always Pre Eclampsia. Some swelling (oedema) is common in normal pregnancy, but excessive swelling which also involves the face can occur in Pre Eclampsia. In severe Pre Eclampsia, other symptoms can appear, including severe headaches, visual disturbances (such as flashing lights), vomiting and pain in the upper abdomen. While such symptoms may have other less dangerous causes, they should never be ignored during pregnancy.

The relative deficiency in the blood supply from the mother to the placenta limits the baby’s supply of nutrients and oxygen, which may lead to reduced growth of the baby (intrauterine growth restriction) and even oxygen deprivation. The timing of delivery in cases of Pre Eclampsia which arise early in the second half of pregnancy can be particularly difficult, because a very premature fetus may be severely affected by Pre Eclampsia, but on the other hand, cannot be certain of survival outside the womb either.

Once a woman with Pre Eclampsia has developed persistent hypertension and significant proteinuria, the disease is considered to be severe and hospitalisation is required for careful monitoring of maternal and fetal welfare, stabilisation of various complications of Pre Eclampsia and preparation for delivery. Even though some features of pre-eclampsia. can be temporarily improved by treatments, the disease itself is progressive (sometimes slowly, but sometimes rapidly) until delivery. Blood pressure lowering drugs may often be necessary to reduce the risks of complications such as heart failure and stroke. Anticonvulsant drugs such as magnesium may also be required to prevent or treat eclamptic fits. Because of the progressive nature of Pre Eclampsia, once admitted, women are not usually discharged until after delivery.
How Can I Best Prevent Pre Eclampsia?

The best way to minimise the harm that Pre Eclampsia may cause in a pregnancy is to regularly attend for antenatal check-ups, so that the chance of detecting Pre Eclampsia in its earliest stages is optimised. If a woman is at particular risk of Pre Eclampsia, then it would be wise for her to attend a specialist obstetrician or maternity hospital with skill and experience in the management of Pre Eclampsia and its complications. Such women especially should consult with their doctors early in pregnancy, or even before pregnancy, to plan their antenatal care. All women should ensure that their blood pressure is checked regularly during pregnancy and that their urine is examined for the presence of protein. While small amounts of protein in urine specimens may be normal during pregnancy, amounts greater than a “trace” should not be ignored and should lead to further investigations to determine the cause of the proteinuria. Besides Pre Eclampsia, attention may be drawn by this simple antenatal test to other pregnancy problems such as urinary tract infections.

Women should always report worrying signs or symptoms to their doctor during pregnancy. Often there may turn out to be no cause for alarm, but it is a simple matter to have a blood pressure measurement, a urine check, a blood test or other investigations/ examinations to be sure that Pre Eclampsia is not the cause of the symptoms or signs of concern. Unfortunately, Pre Eclampsia does not provide a woman with early warning symptoms or signs so never miss an antenatal appointment!!
Personal Stories of Pre Eclampsia
Christine’s Story

I spent the first 5 months of my pregnancy in and out of hospital due to Hyperemesis Gravidarum, an abnormal condition of pregnancy where I could not stop vomiting. At 20 weeks gestation instead of putting on weight, I had lost 12kgs. By the time I was 22 weeks I still required anti-nausea drugs 3 times every day. Despite still feeling nauseous every day the vomiting had stopped, allowing me to finally eat and more importantly keep food down.

An underlying kidney disease increased the risk of complications during my pregnancy, one of which was Pre Eclampsia. By around 26 weeks my blood pressure started to slowly creep up a little each visit. Some protein was evident in my urine so I started to have fortnightly visits with the obstetrician. At my 28-week appointment the Ob decided to order another ultrasound, he had concerns that the baby had stopped growing. The results stated that my baby was 1-2 weeks smaller than the dates would suggest, and that it was nothing to worry about!

By the following visit my blood pressure had become borderline and I was told to see my GP in the middle of the fortnight. At this stage I had a persistent headache, being a headachy and migraine person I didn’t think anything of it. The one thing that did concern me was that during a 24 hour urine test that I completed over the weekend, it seemed as though none of the fluid I was drinking was coming back out of me. Little did I know that this was being caused by the pre-eclampsia. Thankfully I had made an appointment to see my GP on the Monday afternoon. It was then discovered that my blood pressure was 160 over 110, I was told to go straight to the hospital.

When I arrived at the hospital they planned to control my blood pressure via medication and complete bed rest for as long as possible. As a precaution they gave me steroid injections to prepare the babies lungs for an early delivery. In anticipation of potential complications they transferred me to a major hospital, which was better equipped to handle pre-term infants.

The following day was spent nervously completing tests and awaiting results. Later that same evening my whole body started to shake uncontrollably, and while attached to a foetal heart monitor I watched my unborn babies heart rate drop repeatedly to dangerously low levels. At this point the decision was made to perform an emergency caesarean. As we had discovered everything about pregnancy and evidently birth was completely out of our control, we just had to accept the situation and hope for the best. So while being prepped on the operating table I was not at all surprised at the discovery that the epidural had not worked! A general anaesthetic was organised and at 8.47pm that evening our tiny little boy Kyle Reid, weighing 2 pound 3 ounces (1040gms) was delivered.

It was explained that the Pre-eclampsia symptoms would get worse before they got better. This meant that I remained in the labour room until stabilised on the 4th day. I remember that my vision was very blurry and I experienced temporary hearing loss. I still had the shakes and was apparently quite puffy due to all that fluid my body was saving for a rainy day! I do remember asking my Mum if it was all a bad dream, had I ever been pregnant, and more importantly did I really have a baby? The nurses refused to take me to see him, and said that he was too sick to come up to me. It really felt like my worst nightmare, every time I was lucid enough to remember, my heart broke again, the only contact with my tiny baby was through a Polaroid photograph. On the 3rd day the nurses relented, they felt that keeping me from my child was becoming detrimental to my health so I was finally wheeled up to see him!

Upon further investigation of my placenta, massive calcification was discovered, we were told that our baby would have been lucky to survive another 2 weeks in utero. It makes me shudder to think what may have happened if we hadn’t gone to the GP in between visits to the obstetrician. We really are lucky parents to have our beautiful son. Kyle remained in hospital for 8 weeks, experiencing ups and downs, he came home weighing a whopping 4 pound 5 ounces (2045gms). The ups and downs continued throughout the first year and I am glad to say he is now a healthy, happy 18 month old. My blood pressure remained a problem for about 4 months after the delivery, requiring medication to control it. My eyesight was also poor for a couple of months but thankfully like my blood pressure it all returned to normal after a short while.
Anne’s Story (may be upsetting for some readers).

After two miscarriages, I was thrilled to find I was pregnant and doing well. At 23 weeks, my feet had become so swollen with fluid that I found it difficult to wear shoes, but I thought this was quite normal in pregnancy. At 25 weeks, the swelling spread to my hands and face, I couldn’t open my eyes because of the fluid. The local GP said it was an allergy. Blood pressure was slightly raised; I had severe headaches, indigestion and heartburn. At 26 weeks, the obstetrician found my blood pressure and protein was extremely high.

I was told I would die if I wasn’t delivered within 24 hours. He took me immediately by taxi to the hospital for an emergency Caesarean section, but delivery was delayed by 24 hours as the risk of heart attack or stroke was so great. The next day, under general anaesthetic, my daughter Brooke was born, weighing (804gm) l lb 12.5oz. It was discovered that I had had an abruption and a huge blood clot had formed between the placenta and my baby daughter. Her chances of survival had dropped from 30 percent to 10 percent. Brooke struggled long and hard for life.

After delivery I lapsed into a coma, lasting six days. The massive amounts of fluid made my brain swell, causing vivid hallucinations, aggressive behaviour and fear for my life. I was blinded for a period of time, alternating with double vision. Even today, it’s hard to believe that I lost six days out of both our lives.

On day six I saw my beautiful daughter for the first time. She was so tiny and grey-looking. The ventilator tube took up most of her face. There was very little of her that I could touch, due to all the tubes and equipment attached to her. I didn’t feel like a mother. I couldn’t hold my baby.

Brooke had sustained severe brain damage as a result of Pre-eclampsia. I cried an ocean of tears.

My little miracle, Brooke, came home 93 days later. With her she brought much love and happiness. Her struggle for life ended thirteen months and eighteen days later. But she leaves us with much determination and inspiration.

This is the first time I have put pen to paper to publicly share my experience, in the hope that I can help other bereaved parents.

Early Pregnancy Signs

One of the most trying times in a woman’s life is when she suspects that she may be pregnant. Whether or not you have yet missed a menstrual period or taken a test, you may be experiencing symptoms that just make you wonder. Taking a look at some of the early pregnancy signs is a good way to determine if you need to take a home pregnancy test or make a doctors appointment. Some women experience no symptoms at all, but most pregnant women have at least a few body clues as to the idea that they may be pregnant.

There are many early pregnancy signs, some of which are similar to those symptoms you get around the time of your menstrual period. Mild cramping and bloating are very common in early pregnancy and can be mistaken for premenstrual issues. Mood swings due to increasing levels of hormones are also often mistaken for symptoms of PMS. Breast soreness or tenderness is another confusing sign women tend to overlook early on. However, if you are experiencing these signs and your period does not start or is nothing more than spotting, you may want to take a pregnancy test.

Stomach issues are some of the most common early pregnancy signs. Most times this is displayed as morning sickness, which is nausea or vomiting. The name morning sickness is a bit misleading, because it can occur at any time of the day. This can sometimes be brought on by sights or the extreme sensitivity to smell that some women experience in early pregnancy. Some women have strange food cravings, while others are constantly hungry. Each woman will react differently to the changes in her body and hormone levels, so none of these signs are considered abnormal.

There are various other early pregnancy signs that can seem quite random, but are not unusual or unheard of. Early weight gain can be a sign that your body is preparing to support another human being. Dizziness and faintness are also not unusual. Increased vaginal discharge can be a frightening thing, but is very common. Frequent urination is sometimes an annoyance in early pregnancy, but tends to get better for a while before returning in the third trimester. Headaches, due to all the hormonal changes in your body are not an uncommon occurrence. These are just a small sample of the various symptoms women get, so don’t be surprised if you experience other seemingly strange signs during early pregnancy.

Your body will go through many things throughout pregnancy, so be prepared. These early pregnancy signs are just a taste of what is to come. Some of these symptoms will disappear as quickly as they came, only to be replaced by a new sign. Other symptoms will stick with you until the day you deliver your baby. A trained medical professional can help you to make sense of the things you are experiencing, whether or not these symptoms are actually signs of pregnancy, so please consult a doctor whenever necessary.

Protecting the unborn who have disabilitie

Protecting the unborn who have disabilities

It’s time for many of the critics of the Federal Government’s decision to cut Medicare rebates for early ultrasound tests to be up-front about why they’re upset.

Behind the rhetoric about denying choice and compromising women’s health is the more sinister reason for their discontent: the lost opportunities to search for and destroy unborn children with disabilities.

Not that many people have been prepared to put it that plainly.

But their intention is pretty clear: they object to the reduced opportunity to detect and eliminate "abnormalities" using abortion. The perception is that being born with a disability is a fate worse than death.

The demonising of disability is aptly demonstrated by the often-used phrase "severe foetal abnormality".

What this phrase really means is that all unborn children who can be detected with a disability, whether it be spina bifida, Down syndrome or another condition, will be in danger of abortion.

Both spina bifida and Down syndrome are disabilities which present great challenges, but with which many people in our community live happy lives.

These people are not the monsters implied by the offensive term "severe foetal abnormality".

The intolerance of our society for people with disabilities is demonstrated by figures released last year by the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare, which show that in 1987, about seven babies born out of every 10,000 had spina bifida.

By 1996, this had fallen to about three for every 10,000 live births. This fall was not achieved by some miracle of foetal surgery, nor by the increased consumption of folic acid.

In 1996, 46 per cent of unborn children detected with Spina Bifida were aborted, up from 7% in 1987.

Prenatal diagnosis, with the intent of selectively aborting unborn children because they have a disability, is blatant discrimination.

But why does this discrimination exist? Is it the parents’ fault? I don’t think so.

There are lots of parents out there who are scared that their child will have a disability not just because they are caring people, but because they know how difficult it will be for them and their child, often without adequate support for their special needs.

Often parents are given a particularly negative assessment of their child’s prospects if their child is identified as having a disability.

They know that their child must meet our society’s strict physical and mental standards, or be considered of lesser value.

IVF pioneer Dr Robert Edwards, at a conference in France last year, commented that "soon it will be a sin of parents to have a child that carries the heavy burden of genetic disease.

"We are entering a world where we have to consider the quality of our children".

Disabled Peoples International put it best when they commented on a government discussion paper some years ago: "it is a particular tragedy that people should feel that there is so little social support and assistance, and that disability is so appalling that they should seek an abortion lest they raise a ‘defective’ child.

"Indeed, we question a social system which is prepared to fund the elimination and screening of people with disabilities, yet is not prepared adequately to fund the personal care and education services we need to lead autonomous, happy and successful lives in the community."

Cost is another factor that some commentators no longer feel embarrassed to raise.

The Canberra Times’ editorial of January 11 championed early ultrasound tests saying "... the costs may be justified given the long-term costs of bringing up disabled children."

The cost-benefit of allowing a person to be born must surely be a very difficult calculation, not the least because of all the intangibles like the happiness a person can experience just from being alive.

The benefit side of the equation is rarely addressed - it is assumed that a child with a disability will bring no benefit, no happiness to others.

More importantly, it is assumed that the child has no inherent value and that she or he can only be a cost.

During a debate on abortion law in the ACT in 1998, the ACT Department of Health and Community Care advised the Health Minister of the cost - but not the benefit - of every extra child born with a disability.

Ironically, though these life or death decisions often depend on the result of an ultrasound test, the recent Senate report "Rocking the Cradle" found that the tests are not 100% accurate and that sometimes babies are falsely identified as having an "abnormality".

"In some instances normal babies have been aborted because of false-positive diagnoses."

One submission highlighted by the Senate Committee said "I find that most women, once aware of the likelihood of false positive or false negative results with regard to ultrasound do not want the screening."

The more we are willing to accept and support people with disabilities as just a natural part of our community’s diversity, the more compassionate and accepting we will all become.

This discrimination against disabilities doesn’t just mean the end of many unborn children detected with a disability.

It also means that the lives of the people who slip through the screening net are devalued too.

How effective is the Pap smear?

How effective is the Pap smear?
Regular Pap smears every two years can help prevent up to 90 per cent of the most common type of cervical cancer.

Like all screening procedures, the Pap smear has limitations. Sometimes it will not detect early cell changes because the smear did not contain enough abnormal cells. Sometimes samples are difficult to interpret due to blood or mucus on the slide. If this occurs, the general practitioner or nurse may need to take another Pap smear.

What is the cause of cervical cancer?

What is the cause of cervical cancer?
Human Papilloma Virus (HPV), a sexually transmitted infection which in most cases (80%) is cleared by the body’s immune system in 8-14 months. The presence of HPV may be detected by the Pap smear. Some women who have persistent infections may develop abnormalities of the cervix. This is why it is important to have a regular Pap smears.

What are the symptoms of cervical cancer?

What are the symptoms of cervical cancer?

In the early stages of cervical cancer, there are usually no symptoms. The only way to detect changes is if you have a Pap smear.

If you have any abnormal vaginal bleeding (such as intermittent bleeding, bleeding after sex or after menopause), abnormal or persistent vaginal discharge (bloody or offensive), or pelvic pain, you should see your general practitioner.

What is a Pap smear?

In 1928, Dr Papanicolaou discovered that cells in the cervix change in appearance before they become cancerous. The Pap smear, named after the doctor, is used to check changes in the cervix (the neck of the womb) at the top of the vagina. It is a screening tool to find early warning signs that cancer might develop in the future.

The Pap smear is a simple procedure. Cells are collected from the cervix and placed (smeared) onto a slide. The slide is sent to a laboratory where the cells are tested for anything unusual. If abnormal changes are found at screening, further tests will be done to see if treatment is needed.

The Pap smear is not for diagnosing cancer, but rather, for finding early changes which might become cancer.

A Pap smear only takes a few minutes. No drugs or anaesthetics are required and it can be done by a general practitioner, nurse or women's health worker.

The Pap smear does not check for other problems in the reproductive system. It is not a check for sexually transmitted infections. Women who are worried that they may have a sexually transmitted infection should talk to their general practitioner about the tests and treatments available.

Help I think I'm pregnant

Menstruation can be delayed for a few reasons - either pregnancy has occurred or some other factor has come into play.

Please note that the following information applies to natural cycles - that is, if you are not taking the Pill.

When trying to work out why your period is not arriving when it is due, the first question to consider is have you been sexually active that month?


Sexually active - Intercourse

If you think that you have had sexual intercourse without contraception since your last period - you need to determine if you were fertile when intercourse occurred.

You are fertile when you are ovulating - usually mid cycle. This fertile time is generally accompanied by an increase in vaginal or cervical mucus - discharge. This is a signal you are fertile. How do I know I am fertile provides more information on recognising mid cycle ovulation.

And there is also a possibility of being fertile during your natal lunar fertile time.

Two fertile times provides information on your natal lunar fertile time.

If you think intercourse occurred at one of your fertile times - The best course of action at this point is to take a home pregnancy test , you will save yourself the worry and be better armed to deal with the situation.

If it is less than 72 hours since intercourse occurred you may want to consider the morning after pill - This form of emergency contraception is taken in two doses: the first within 72 hours of unprotected sex and the second 12 hours later. These pills work by inhibiting fertilization or implantation. The morning after pill will not work if the woman is already pregnant.
Sexual activity - withdrawal

Withdrawal or where the man pulls his penis out before he comes or ejaculates is NOT a reliable form of contraception. Sperm is often present on the tip of the penis even before he comes - if you are fertile and engaging in this form of intercourse you are running a very serious risk of getting pregnant.

Other sexual activity.

If you haven't had sexual intercourse at all, but have participated in heavy petting, then it is not likely that you are pregnant.
Can you get pregnant without having sexual intercourse?

No you can't , However there is a remote chance of getting pregnant if the penis or sperm comes in contact with the mouth of your vagina when you are fertile, that is, in the presence of your wet, slippery mucus. To be on the safe side, whenever you are fertile keep the penis well away from your vagina.

Another important thing to remember is that sperm can live for up to 5 days, so knowing your body and its fertility and allowing a number of safe days (generally about 5 days) leading up to and after (2-3 days) ovulation / fertile times is essential.

So if your sexual activities have not included any of the risky behaviour above then you probably aren't pregnant and the delay is being caused by other factors. In this scenario the other factors are usually worry and anxiety about being pregnant.

The best thing to do, although not the easiest thing to do is to relax and allow your body to do its thing.

You might want to try visualising your blood flowing, or using affirmations like "I now release the worry of being pregnant and welcome the flow of my blood" or what ever feels comfortable for you.

This might sound a bit weird but our thoughts and emotions have such a profound effect upon our menstrual cycles that it is definitely worth giving it a try.

Run yourself a nice hot bath, use some essential oils or bath salts, light some candles, and just relax and let your body unwind. You may also want to try have your lower back or abdomen massaged, and doing other forms of exercise where you are loosening up your pelvic / hip area.

Irregular cycles gives a more in depth look into some other reasons why your period might be late.

Are You Pregnant?

Pregnancy symptoms vary from woman to woman and even pregnancy to pregnancy. If you're particularly tuned in to your body's rhythms, you may begin to suspect you're pregnant soon after conception. But most women won't experience any early pregnancy symptoms until the fertilised egg implants into the uterine wall, on average six to twelve days after ovulation. Other women may notice no signs of pregnancy until a delayed or missed menstrual cycle, one of the most pronounced and significant symptoms of pregnancy.

Whether you're trying to get pregnant, or trying not to, it's important to understand indicators of pregnancy because each symptom may be related to something other than pregnancy.

Below is a list of some of the most common first signs that you may be on your way to becoming a mother. You may experience all, some, or none of these signs that you could be prego:

• Food cravings

Admittedly it's a cliché, but food cravings sometimes can be a sign of pregnancy. Don't rely on a hankering for pickles and ice cream as a sure symptom of pregnancy - it may be all in your head, or even a sign that your body is deficient in certain nutrients - however, if cravings are accompanied by some of the other symptoms on this list, it could mean that you might be eating for two.

What else it could mean: Poor diet, nutritional deficiency, stress, depression, or impending menstruation.

• Darkening of your areolas

If the skin around your nipples darkens, you may be pregnant, though this may also mark a hormonal imbalance unrelated to pregnancy or be a leftover effect from a previous pregnancy.

What else it could mean: Hormonal imbalance unrelated to pregnancy or may be a leftover effect from a previous pregnancy.

• Light bleeding or cramping

Implantation bleeding can be one of the earliest pregnancy symptoms when, about six to twelve days after conception, the embryo burrows into the uterine wall. As a result of this, some women will experience implantation spotting - a slight staining of a pink or brown colour - as well as some cramping.
You might mistake implantation bleeding for a very light period, as spotting can occur around the time you expect your period.

What else it could mean: Actual menstruation, altered menstruation, changes in birth control pill, infection, or abrasion from intercourse.

• Frequent urination

Once the embryo implants and begins producing the hormone human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) - the pregnancy sustaining hormone secreted by the embryo soon after conception - usually around six to eight weeks after conception - you may find yourself running to the bathroom more often.

What else it could mean: Urinary tract infection, diabetes, increasing liquid intake, or taking excessive diuretics.

• Fatigue

Feeling drowsy? No, make that absolutely wiped. High levels of the hormone progesterone experienced during pregnancy can make you feel as if you've run a marathon when all you've done is put in a normal day's work. This hallmark of early pregnancy can appear as soon as the first week after conception (before a positive pregnancy test can be performed), but don't necessarily assume you're pregnant just because you're feeling exhausted.

What else it could mean: Stress, exhaustion, depression, common cold or flu, or other illnesses can also leave you feeling drained.

• Tender, swollen breasts

If you're pregnant, your breasts will probably become fuller and increasingly tender to the touch, similar to the way they may feel before your period, but more pronounced. These changes may begin as early as one to two weeks after conception.

What else it could mean: Hormonal imbalance, birth control pills, impending menstruation (PMS) can also cause your breasts to be swell and become more sensitive.

• Nausea

As early as a couple of days following conception, you may begin feeling nauseated and queasy; it will often show up between two to eight weeks after conception. Despite the common name of this well-known symptom of pregnancy (morning sickness) it doesn't only kick in during the morning hours: pregnancy-related nausea can be nettle any time of day or night.

If you're lucky, morning sickness won't hit you until a few weeks after conception, and some women are lucky enough to escape it altogether.

What else it could mean: Food poisoning, stress, or other stomach disorders can also cause you to feel queasy.

• Backaches and headaches

Lower backaches and headaches may be symptoms that occur in early pregnancy as a result of the sudden rise of hormones.

What else it could mean: Impending menstruation, stress, back problems, and physical or mental strains, dehydration, caffeine withdrawal, eye strain.

• A missed/different period

When you become pregnant, your next period should be missed. Many women experience bleeding while they are pregnant, but usually the bleeding will be shorter or lighter than a normal period. If you have been sexually active, are late and usually experience clockwork visits from Aunt Flo, it's worth trying a pregnancy test.

What else it could mean: Excessive weight gain/loss, fatigue, hormonal imbalance, tension, stress, stopping birth control pill, or breast-feeding.

• Positive pregnancy test

A positive home pregnancy test is the most definitive sign that you're in the family way. Most home tests recommend waiting to test until at least the first date of a missed period to ensure that adequate amounts of hCG.