Have you been feeling a bit uneasy or off-kilter lately? Is your body sending you some strange signals that have you wondering, "Hmm, could I be pregnant?" We get it—early pregnancy signs can be a bit mystifying and even scary, especially if it wasn't in your calendar. Whether you're pumped about the possibility of a tiny human or feeling nervous, it's super important to stay in the know about what's happening with your body so you can make smart choices for your well-being.

First off, let's take a deep breath together!

Ready? Now, let's dive into 6 signs and symptoms of early pregnancy:

1. Missing your period: Having a missed period is often the most unmissable clue there is regarding pregnancy. If you've been keeping tabs on your menstrual cycle and you're fashionably late, it could be your body's way of announcing, "Surprise, you might be pregnant!"

2. Nausea and/or vomiting: Ahh, the infamous "morning sickness," which—spoiler alert—can strike at any time of morning, day, or night. Around 75% of women get to "enjoy" this experience during their first three months of pregnancy. Severity varies, from a light queasy feeling, to a full-on "Uh-oh, I think I ate some bad sushi" sensation. If your stomach is more upset, irritated, or angry with you than normal - it could very well be trying to tell you there’s a baby on the way.

3. Fatigue/Tiredness: Are you feeling more wiped out than usual? Like even thinking about your daily tasks makes you want to curl up in a ball and take a nap? Pregnancy hormones are notorious energy zappers, leaving you feeling deflated like a punctured balloon. Fun, right??

4. Breast changes: Your boobs might randomly start feeling sensitive, swollen, or maybe just a little tender. This can happen very early on, sometimes within the first week or two of getting pregnant.

5. Increase in urination: Do you suddenly have the urge to pee every millisecond - or at least, way more often? Welcome to the world of early pregnancy signals! Caused by increased blood flow to your bladder and kidneys, this (very annoying) symptom can have you and your bathroom becoming BFFs.

6. Mood swings: Find yourself randomly crying at a commercial? Have a laughing fit over a cheesy Facebook meme? Get irate over dropping one French fry on the ground? Pregnancy isn’t all fun and games like the previously listed symptoms on this list (cue sarcasm), but it can also bring on a rollercoaster of emotions. Caused, once again, by hormones, if you find yourself pendulating from tearful and testy, to chill and cheerful, and all the variations in between - you may just be “expecting.”

If you're experiencing any of these symptoms, it might be a good idea to take a pregnancy test just to be sure. You can easily grab one from a store nearby or online. Alternatively, you can visit a clinic like Image Clear Ultrasound - Tuscaloosa, where we offer free pregnancy testing, ultrasounds, referrals, resources, and options, all handled by our friendly and professional staff.

No matter if you're feeling overjoyed, worried, or maybe even numb to the prospect of pregnancy — just know that there are people who care and want to support you. So, take another satisfying breath and remember: you're not alone.

You've totally got this!