Pregnancy Symptoms

Key Changes

Hormonal shifts begin as the body prepares to support the baby.

Pre-conception to ovulation

• No symptoms yet (your body is preparing for ovulation and potential conception).

Fertilization and implantation

• Light spotting (implantation bleeding)
• Mild cramping
• Fatigue
• Breast tenderness

Week 5–6

• Missed period
• Nausea or morning sickness begins
• Frequent urination
• Mood swings
• Food aversions or cravings

Week 7–12

• Continued nausea
• Bloating
• Constipation
• Increased sense of smell
• Emotional ups and downs
• Visible fatigue

Key Changes

Body adjusts, symptoms may ease, and baby’s growth accelerates.

Week 13–16

• Morning sickness eases
• “Pregnancy glow” (clearer skin, shiny hair)
• Increased energy
• Enlarging belly

Week 17–20

• Feeling baby move (“quickening”)
• Backaches begin
• Stretch marks may appear
• Nasal congestion
• Heartburn

Week 21–26

• Leg cramps
• Swollen ankles or feet
• Varicose veins
• Shortness of breath (mild)

Key Changes

Baby grows rapidly; mother’s body prepares for labour.

Week 27–32

• Frequent urination returns
• Braxton Hicks contractions (practice contractions)
• Trouble sleeping
• Breast changes (may leak colostrum)

Week 33–36

• More fatigue
• Pelvic pressure
• Haemorrhoids
• Difficulty moving comfortably

Week 37–40+

• Nesting instinct (urge to clean/organize)
• Cervix begins to dilate
• Loss of mucus plug
• Water may break
• Regular contractions / labour