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10 Early Signs of Conception

The American Pregnancy Association cites ten early signs of conception in addition to the obvious-the late or missed period. In addition to the signs, the APA offers the possibility of other things that may be causing the symptoms.

The first sign that the APA offers is implantation bleeding. The APA says that when the embryo implants itself approximately eight days from conception, women may have spotting and or cramping. The APA explains that even though it may be a sign of pregnancy, it also may signify an actual menstruation, an infection, or an abrasion from intercourse.

The APA suggests that a difference or delay in menstruation is also an early sign of pregnancy, but offers that these changes may be caused by hormonal changes, stress, or weight fluctuations. Swollen breasts are also a possible early symptom of pregnancy. Other explanations given by the APA include stress, depression, cold or flu, and exhaustion.

Many women are aware of the nausea and morning sickness that often accompanies pregnancies as early as two to eight weeks after conception. Still, this could be caused by stomach disorders, food poisoning or stress. Backaches are another sign that you may be pregnant, though the APA notes that backaches may result from PMS, stress, general back problems, or physical and or mental strain.

Women may also develop headaches in the early stages of pregnancy as a result of hormone fluctuations. Headaches may also be caused by caffeine withdrawal, dehydration, eyestrain etc. The APA also considers frequent urination a possible early sign of conception, which may start 6-8 weeks after conception. This could also be caused by drinking more, urinary tract infections, taking diuretics or diabetes.

The last two symptoms that the APA claims may be early signs of pregnancy are darkening of the areolas or the skin around the nipples, and food cravings. The APA warns that the darkening of the areolas may be a hormone imbalance and the food cravings could simply be a poor diet, stress, depression or PMS.

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